Palermo is an ancient town located on Sicily’s northern coast, and dating back to the period between the 8th and 6th centuries BC, when the Phoenicians colonised the area. It is a city that exudes charm and is steeped in history and historical architecture, making it a fascinating and attractive tourist destination.
Quattro Canti, at the intersection of via Vittorio Emanuele and via Maqueda, which divide Palermo into four segments, is host to four 17th century baroque palaces reminiscent of the era of Spanish rule. Each palace has a convex façade facing on to the square, and four basins with statues representing the four seasons. Via Maqueda was constructed in the 1580s, and it was this area that was once the meeting place of the ancient Palermitani.
Palermo’s prettiest square is the Piazza Pretoria, and in its centre stands Fontana Pretoria, a magnificent fountain that was created by the Florentine sculptor Francesco Camilliani between 1554 and 1555. It is a lavish work of art, richly decorated with monsters, nymphs, the heads of animals, ornamental staircases, and gods and goddesses. It’s worth visiting the square at night, when the fountain is illuminated by floodlights.
If you feel like taking a break from city life, visit the Real Tenuta della Favorita, a fantastic park that lies immediately outside the city centre, or head to the gorgeous Orto Botanico, covering 11 hectares and displaying plants from all over the world.
Palermo is well-known for its craftwork, and those interested in picking up examples of these unique items should visit corso Vittorio Emanuele and via Caderai for gifts and souvenirs. Vucciria Market is a different shopping experience, but one that will acquaint you with a true sense of the city’s atmosphere.
There are many fascinating and beautiful destinations located near Palermo, ranging from the soft sands of Mondello Lido, to Ustica, an offshore volcanic island. Solunto, with its ancient Greco-Roman ruins, is located about 16kms east on the slopes of Mount Catalfamo, overlooking the sea.
If you’re driving, three autostrade link Palermo with the rest of Sicily. The most used routes are the A19 from Catania or the A20 from Messina. From the west, the A29 comes in from Mazara del Vallo. Trains and buses link Palermo with other destinations in the country. If you’re travelling by air, Falcone-Borsellino Airport is Sicily's largest airport. It is 31kms from Palermo, in Punta Raisi.
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