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Palermo Astronomical Observatory

About

The Palermo Astronomical Observatory is one of Italy’s oldest scientific institutions, a place where centuries of research and discovery have shaped the study of the cosmos. Founded in the late 18th century on the rooftop of the Palazzo dei Normanni, it later moved to its current location in the leafy district of Pizzo Sella, offering clearer skies and a more suitable environment for observation. The observatory played a key role in the development of modern astronomy, most famously with the discovery of the asteroid Ceres by Father Giuseppe Piazzi in 1801, an event that placed Palermo at the centre of international scientific attention. Today, the observatory combines historical heritage with ongoing research, housing instruments, archives, and educational spaces that reveal how astronomy has evolved over time. Visitors can explore its exhibits, learn about celestial mechanics, and appreciate the legacy of scientists who expanded humanity’s understanding of the universe from this corner of Sicily.

Palermo Italy

Location

Palermo Astronomical Observatory (Osservatorio Astronomico di Palermo "Giuseppe S. Vaiana") resides within the historic Palazzo dei Normanni at Piazza del Parlamento in Palermo's ancient historic centre. Founded in 1790, this active research facility of Italy's National Institute for Astrophysics occupies the Norman Palace's upper tower, housing historic instruments like the Palermo Circle and modern labs for stellar evolution and solar studies. Nearby loom the palace's Palatine Chapel and gardens, Porta Nuova gate, Chiesa di San Giovanni degli Eremiti, Villa Bonanno park, and swift walks along the Cassaro to Quattro Canti, Palermo Cathedral, and Ballarò market.

Palermo Astronomical Observatory

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