The Fontana Pretoria is one of Palermo’s most striking and theatrical monuments, dominating the square in front of the city’s Town Hall with its dazzling display of white marble. Originally crafted in the 16th century for a Florentine villa, the fountain was later transported to Sicily, where its grand scale and bold sculptural programme transformed the urban landscape. Its circular terraces are adorned with mythological figures, nymphs, river gods, and allegories, all arranged around a central basin that creates a sense of movement and harmony. Locals once nicknamed it the “Fountain of Shame” because of the abundance of nude statues, an unusual sight in a deeply religious city, yet today this very feature contributes to its charm and fame. Surrounded by historic palaces and the Church of Santa Caterina, Fontana Pretoria stands as a symbol of Palermo’s Renaissance ambition, blending artistic virtuosity with the lively atmosphere of the surrounding streets.
Palermo ItalyFontana Pretoria graces Piazza Pretoria in the heart of Palermo's historic centre, anchoring the vibrant Kalsa quarter just one block south of the iconic Quattro Canti crossroads. This grand Renaissance fountain, known locally as the Fountain of Shame for its nude statues, dominates the square in front of Palazzo Pretorio, the municipal hall. Nearby rise the majestic domes of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria and San Giuseppe dei Teatini churches, with quick strolls along Via Maqueda leading to Palermo Cathedral, Ballarò market, and the Norman Palace.
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Modern Art Gallery Sant'Anna
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Palazzo Alliata Villafranca
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Teatro Massimo di Palermo
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Teatro Libero
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Church of Saint Mary 'dell'Ammiraglio'
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Chiesa e Monastero di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria
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Porta Nuova
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Porta Felice
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Albero Falcone
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Orto Botanico di Palermo
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Parco Piersanti Mattarella
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Planetario di Palermo
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