Statue du génie de Palerme

The Genio di Palazzo Pretorio consists of a central marble figure mounted on a red porphyry column with two carved pages holding shields on its sides.

The statue was discovered in 1596 in the cellars of Palazzo Pretorio and later placed on the monumental staircase by Pretor Francesco del Bosco.

This 15th-century artwork by Domenico Gagini features a crowned figure with a serpent feeding from its chest, representing the city's relationship with its inhabitants.

The sculpture stands 2.60 meters tall and incorporates different materials including Carrara marble, red porphyry, and gray Billiemi marble from Mount Billiemi.

The Latin inscription on the basin reads 'Panormus conca aurea suos devorat alienos nutrit', meaning 'Palermo golden basin devours its own and nurtures strangers'.

Inception: 14 century

Creator: Domenico Gagini

GPS coordinates: 38.11523,13.36244

Latest update: March 5, 2025 09:06