St Patrick’s Well, or Pozzo di San Patrizio, is located in Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. There are 248 steps down (and up). The view in my image is looking up at the daylight at the top of the well. The whole thing is like a tower that goes down into the ground, rather than standing above it. The design uses a double spiral stair, with 70 windows from the stair into the shaft of the well. The point of this double spiral was to allow mules to go down and fill vessels and come back up the second spiral without any traffic jams. I sure felt like a mule going down and then up this structure with my friend Julian!
St Patrick’s Well was built on orders from Pope Clement VII who had taken refuge at Orvieto during the sack of Rome in 1527 by the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V. The Pope wanted to make sure there would be enough water in event of a siege.
The rather odd name for the well was inspired by St Patrick’s Purgatory in Ireland. This is a cave supposedly shown St Patrick by Christ that is said to go down all the way to purgatory (and, yes, climbing out of the well with my camera gear did indeed feel purgatorial!).
From a photographic viewpoint, I am interested in the feeling of light in my image, considering how dark it was down there at the bottom of the well (I had to use my headlamp to see what I was doing with the camera).
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Jernej Letica Photo
14 May 2023Wow, what a captivating image and description of St Patrick’s Well! The architectural design and historical significance truly make it a remarkable place to visit. The intricate double spiral stair and the 70 windows leading into the well create a unique and visually stunning experience. I can only imagine the awe-inspiring view from the top, with daylight pouring in. Your mention of the well’s purpose during times of siege adds an intriguing layer to its story, emphasizing the foresight of Pope Clement VII. Your personal account of descending and ascending the steps, akin to the mules of the past, adds a touch of adventure and authenticity to your experience. The connection to St Patrick’s Purgatory in Ireland, with its spiritual undertones, lends an intriguing aura to the whole setting. It must have been quite a challenge to capture the essence of the well in your photograph, given the darkness below. Your determination and use of your headlamp to navigate and capture the perfect shot exemplify your dedication to your craft. Thank you for sharing this incredible image and the fascinating insights behind it.
Harold Davis
14 May 2023Thanks so much for your extensive and kind comment!