Fonte Miracolosa di San Geminiano

## Overview The Fonte Miracolosa di San Geminiano is a historic natural spring located along Strada Cognento in Modena, Italy. Named after San Geminiano (Saint Geminianus), the patron saint of Modena, this public drinking spring has long been associated with miraculous healing properties. According to local tradition, ancient inhabitants believed that the waters of this spring could cure ailments and ward off disease — a belief that contributed to the spring's enduring reputation and its evocative name, "Miraculous Fountain of San Geminiano." The spring draws from an underground water source that rises naturally to the surface, emerging from the rocky ground. The water has historically been used as a drinking water source by locals and visitors alike, and it remains freely accessible to the public. Visitors have reported that the water tastes clean and fresh, though as with any natural spring, water quality can vary over time. San Geminiano himself is a deeply significant figure in Modena's history. The city's magnificent Romanesque cathedral, the Duomo di Modena (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), is dedicated to him. The association of this spring with his name speaks to the deep cultural and spiritual importance that natural water sources held in the region for centuries. ## Directions The spring is located at Str. Cognento, 200–208, 41126 Modena MO, Italy. **GPS Coordinates:** 44.637935, 10.867858 1. From central Modena, head southwest toward the Cognento area. 2. Find and follow **Strada Cognento** heading eastward. 3. Continue along Strada Cognento until you approach the intersection with **Via Jacopo da Porto Sud**. 4. Just before reaching the Via Jacopo da Porto Sud crossing, look to your **right** — the spring will be visible on the right-hand side of the road. 5. There is no formal parking lot, so look for a safe place to pull over along the road. ## What to Expect The Fonte Miracolosa di San Geminiano is a modest but charming natural spring set along a roadside in the Cognento neighborhood of Modena. Water flows up from underground and emerges from the rocky ground, creating a small but steady flow. The spring is open to the public year-round, and there is no fee to visit or collect water. The setting is relatively unassuming — this is not a grand fountain but rather a natural water source with deep historical roots. Visitors often bring bottles to fill. The surrounding area is semi-rural, on the outskirts of Modena, offering a quieter atmosphere compared to the bustling city center. If you're visiting Modena for its famous culinary traditions (balsamic vinegar, Parmigiano-Reggiano, tortellini), a stop at this spring makes for an interesting cultural side trip. The connection to San Geminiano and the centuries-old belief in the water's miraculous properties add a layer of historical intrigue that goes well beyond a simple water source.