Fontana Pretoria: The Fountain of Shame and Baroque Brilliance

#italytrip Located in the center of Piazza Pretoria, this grandiose fountain is one of Palermo’s most recognizable landmarks. Known locally as the “Fountain of Shame” (Fontana della Vergogna) due to the nude statues of mythological figures that adorn it, the Fontana Pretoria was originally created in Florence before being relocated to Palermo in 1574. The fountain is an impressive piece of Renaissance art, featuring intricate sculptures of gods, goddesses, and animals, arranged in a circular tiered structure. The surrounding buildings, including the City Hall and several historic palaces, add to the fountain’s majestic presence. Despite its controversial reputation in the past, Fontana Pretoria is now admired for its artistic beauty and craftsmanship. A visit to this iconic fountain is a perfect opportunity to admire Palermo’s unique blend of Baroque architecture and public art, making it a must-see attraction during your city exploration.