Piazza Pretoria – Sicily

Piazza Pretoria – The Fountain of Shame in Palermo

Located in the heart of Palermo’s historic center, Piazza Pretoria is one of Sicily’s most beautiful and iconic squares, famous for its magnificent Renaissance fountain and surrounding Baroque architecture. Built in the 16th century, this square is a true masterpiece of Italian art and design, drawing visitors with its elegance and intriguing history.

The centerpiece of the square is the Fontana Pretoria, a spectacular white marble fountain designed by Francesco Camilliani in 1554. Originally intended for a Florentine villa, the fountain was later moved to Palermo, where its graceful nude statues of gods, nymphs, and mythical creatures caused scandal among the city’s deeply religious citizens—earning it the nickname “Fontana della Vergogna” (Fountain of Shame).

Surrounding the fountain are some of Palermo’s most remarkable buildings, including:

• Palermo’s City Hall (Palazzo Pretorio), a grand 16th-century palace that still serves as the seat of government.
• Church of Santa Caterina, an exquisite Baroque church filled with marble decorations and frescoes.
• Historic noble palaces, adding to the square’s majestic atmosphere.

By day, Piazza Pretoria dazzles with sunlight reflecting off its sculpted figures, while at night, it takes on a magical, illuminated charm. Whether admiring the artistic details, capturing stunning photos, or simply enjoying the vibrant atmosphere, Piazza Pretoria is a must-visit destination in Palermo.

Our Tiny Planet artwork of Piazza Pretoria captures its Renaissance beauty and historic grandeur in a stunning 360-degree perspective. Whether printed on canvas, puzzles, or other formats, this unique piece transforms Palermo’s most elegant square into a mesmerizing circular masterpiece—bringing the charm of Sicily into your home!