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Square · Palermo, Sicília
Quattro Canti
The baroque intersection of Palermo's two main streets, Via Maqueda and Corso Vittorio Emanuele, with four curved facades decorated with fountains, statues of kings and patron saints.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Quattro Canti
The Quattro Canti, officially Piazza Villena, mark the crossing of Via Maqueda with Corso Vittorio Emanuele, the old Cassaro. The meeting of the two streets divides the historic centre into four traditional neighbourhoods: Kalsa, Albergheria, Seralcadio (the Capo) and La Loggia.
The four corners were built between 1609 and 1620, during the Spanish period. Each curved facade has three levels: below, a fountain that represents one of the city's ancient rivers and a season of the year; in the middle, a Spanish king; above, one of Palermo's patron saints, Cristina, Ninfa, Oliva and Agata. The square is also called Teatro del Sole, because during the day the sun always illuminates at least one of the facades.
From here you can walk to the Piazza Pretoria, the Martorana, the cathedral and the Teatro Massimo. On many weekends, stretches of Via Maqueda and Corso are closed to cars, with street performers and activity late into the night.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 15 minutes to look at the four facades; it's included on almost every itinerary.
Best time
At any time; in the late afternoon the facades take on a more golden tone and the street is livelier. At night the square is lit up.
How to get there
It's in the historic centre, about a 15-minute walk from Palermo Centrale station via Via Maqueda.
Tip
Cars and buses still pass through part of the junction: cross with care. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Quattro Canti
What are the Quattro Canti?
They are the four Baroque facades at Palermo's central crossroads, made between 1609 and 1620, featuring fountains, Spanish kings and patron saints.
What is near the Quattro Canti?
Piazza Pretoria and the Martorana are a one‑ to two‑minute walk away. The cathedral is about 10 minutes to the west and the Teatro Massimo about 10 minutes to the north.
Are the Quattro Canti in a pedestrian zone?
The sections near Via Maqueda are pedestrian, and Corso Vittorio Emanuele is often closed to cars on many weekends. Check traffic rules if you're driving.