As previously stated, the name of this Contrada is derived from the Tyrrhenian coast defense assignments which, under the Republic of Siena, were entrusted to the men of its military companies.
It is called "Capitana" (Captain) because some of its platoons had the task of guarding the Palazzo Comunale (Town Hall).
In Egypt, the dolphin was the Goddess of Hat-Mehjeje "the queen of fish". In Greece the dolphin was one of the symbols which most often accompanied or recalled the image or appearance of the God Poseidon. The dolphin symbolizes the cairn and peaceful sea and stands out as the savior from all its perils.
The Seat of the Contrada is in via Giovanni Duprè and its Patron Saint is The Madonna under the title of "Visitazione di Maria Vergine" (the visitation of the Virgin Mary). The Oratory of San Giuseppe which once belonged to the flourishing union of carpenters was designed by Baldassarre Peruzzi and erected in 1522. It contains numerous frescos and paintings by XVIth century Sienese artists. The beautiful crypt combines both the seat of the Contrada and a chalk sculpture exhibition by Giovanni Duprè (1817-1882) who was born in this Contrada.
The baptismal font is the work of Algero Rosi and Vittorio Conti. The bronze work is by the sculptor Enzo Buoninsegni (1970).
The women's society which was formed years ago (XIVth century) is very famous.
Fabio Chigi, literary figure, jurist, philosopher and theologian of the "Accademia Senese dei Filomati" (Sienese Academy of Philosophers) was born on this territory (Casato di Sotto) on 12th February 1599. In 1624 he was ordained cardinal by Pope Innocent X on whose death Fabio Chigi became Pope Alexander VII.
The rivalry between Onda and Torre is famous. In June 1642, the "Capitani" (Captains) of these two Contrade were threatened with the penalty of exile from the State if their Contrade took part in any public event. Serious incidents ruined the relations between the two Contradas in 1668 and in 1713.
On 16th August 1713, both the Onda and the Tartuca claimed the only Palio ever to be won jointly. It is conserved by the Onda.
The "Società" is named after Giovanni Duprè.