Fontana Pretoria, Renaissance fountain in historic center of Palermo, Italy.
Fontana Pretoria is a fountain featuring 48 statues arranged in concentric circles that depict mythological figures, animals, and river deities flowing toward a central basin. Water cascades over multiple levels, creating flowing water displays around the composition.
The fountain was created in Florence by sculptor Francesco Camilliani in 1554 and transported to Palermo in 1574 in 644 separate pieces. Its reassembly on the island marked an important moment linking Tuscan artistry with the royal court of Sicily.
The sculptures show classical mythological figures and creatures that reflect Renaissance artistic traditions. The plaza surrounding it has long been a gathering space where locals have met and conducted daily business.
The fountain sits in Piazza Pretoria in the city center and can be viewed at any time. Visitors can reach it on foot or use the free Arancione shuttle bus, which stops at the Piazza Pretoria station nearby.
The fountain earned the nickname 'Fountain of Shame' because its numerous nude statues provoked public discomfort in the 18th and 19th centuries. This reaction shows how strongly people's sense of propriety shaped their view of the artistic compositions.
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Italian historic fountains demonstrate five centuries of craftsmanship in sculpture, hydraulic engineering, and urban design. From the 15th to the 19th century, Italian artisans shaped marble, bronze, and stone to create works combining practicality and artistic expression. These fountains tell...
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