Quattro Canti — Attraction in Palermo

Quattro Canti marks the geographic centre of historical Palermo, a circular square with no space for pedestrians except for the quadrants of rough pavements that run around it. Cut across by two main thoroughfares that intersect at right angles, it is a traffic-jammed place, a heavily polluted zone, suffocating at times, noisy and confusingly chaotic at others. But... several redeeming factors compensate for this lack of graceful ambience. Each of the four palaces perched on a particular quadrant of the square is a Baroque masterpiece, an architectural paragon of fine craftsmanship. Each of the buildings differs from the others; yet, the whole transmits a harmonious regularity that is amazingly pleasing. Look at each of the four distinct fountains that grace the ground-floor recesses; then turn your eyes at the four different allegorical statues further up. Higher up still are more statues awaiting a look-over: the four Spanish kings of Sicily and Palermo’s four most favourite patron saints. On the southwest corner of Quattro Canti stands what is perhaps Palermo’s most impressive Baroque building: the Church of San Giuseppe dei Teatini. Take a gander inside to see the exuberant marble walls that literally dazzle you with their fine colours as light enters through the windows. The design of the cupola is an unparalleled feat of engineering. Add to this the colourful frescoes that grace the ceiling, the gilded stucco that covers the choir vault and the highly proficient altarpieces from the school of Giovanni Bellini and you will definitely be left swooning with emotion after discovering this hidden gem. More gems are awaiting discovery just around the corner on Via Maqueda or further north on Corso Vittorio Emanuele. Dreamy palaces, soaring spires, Byzantine churches and great squares are all there only minutes away from...

Quattro Canti (also known as Piazza Vigliena) is one of the most iconic and picturesque squares in Palermo, Sicily. Located at the intersection of two major streets, Via Maqueda and Corso Vittorio Emanuele, Quattro Canti is a Baroque masterpiece that serves as a focal point of the historic center of the city.

The square is famous for its unique and symmetrical architecture. It features four ornate Baroque facades, each one adorned with statues of the Spanish kings of Sicily, saints, and allegorical figures representing the seasons and the four corners of the city. The facades are set around a central fountain, adding to the square’s grandeur.

Quattro Canti is a vital meeting point in Palermo, often bustling with activity. Its historical and architectural significance, along with its location in the heart of the city, makes it a must-see spot for tourists exploring Palermo's rich cultural heritage. It also provides a perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll through the old town, offering visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of...

Quattro Canti is a stunning Baroque square in the heart of Palermo, Sicily. It is also known as Piazza Vigliena, Ottagono del Sole, or Teatro del Sole. It was built in the 17th century under the Spanish viceroy Marquis of Villena, who wanted to create a monumental crossroad between the two main streets of the city: Via Maqueda and Corso Vittorio Emanuele. The square is composed of four identical facades, each with three levels of statues representing the four seasons, the four Spanish kings of Sicily, and the four patron saints of Palermo: Santa Cristina, Santa Ninfa, Sant'Oliva, and Sant'Agata. The statues are set in elegant niches framed by columns and arches. The facades also have fountains and balconies decorated with coats of arms and allegorical figures. Quattro Canti is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Palermo. It is a beautiful example of Sicilian Baroque architecture and a symbol of the city's history and culture. The square is especially impressive at night, when it is illuminated by lights that create a...