Historic fountain damaged in Dubrovnik

Police are conducting a criminal investigation after the small Onofrio's Fountain in Dubrovnik's historic center was damaged last night.

Located at the eastern end of Stradun, the UNESCO protected fountain was designed by Italian architect Onofrio della Cava in the year 1442.

The eight-sided fountain sits in a semi-circle arched niche of the City Guard Building. Ornate carvings include playful children, dolphins, and seashells. Its Gothic and Renaissance elements and reliefs are a fine example of the city's artistic and architectural innovation at the time.

Though small, the fountain played a significant role in Dubrovnik's medieval water supply system, providing water to buildings, including the Rector's Palace, nearby markets, and to citizens of the city.

Today, the fountain continues to suppy fresh and clean drinking water to locals and tourists alike.