Palazzo degli Elefanti, Baroque palace at Piazza del Duomo, Catania, Italy
The Palazzo degli Elefanti is a Baroque palace at Piazza del Duomo featuring three ornately decorated facades designed by Giovanni Battista Vaccarini. The northern side was added in the 18th century by Carmelo Battaglia.
Construction began in 1696 after an earthquake destroyed the earlier structure, with initial designs by Giovanni Battista Longobardo. Vaccarini later redesigned and transformed the building into its current form.
The palace contains religious and historical oil paintings by Sicilian artist Giuseppe Sciuti on its second floor, created in the early 1900s. These works depict scenes from Catania's history and its spiritual traditions.
The building now serves as Catania's Town Hall and is located on the northern side of Piazza del Duomo. Visitors can explore the interior during business hours and see the grand staircase and reception rooms.
The interior features a grand staircase with four porticoes added in the late 18th century by architect Stefano Ittar. This staircase is one of the palace's most striking architectural features and showcases the refined craftsmanship of that era.
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