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Fontana del Garraffo: A Baroque Jewel in Palermo
A stunning Baroque fountain in Palermo's Piazza Marina, the Fontana del Garraffo represents the city's rich history and artistic heritage.
The Fontana del Garraffo is a Baroque fountain dating back to 1698, located in Palermo's Piazza Marina. Originally situated in the Vucciria market, it was moved to its current location in 1862. The fountain's name comes from the Arabic word 'Gharraf,' meaning abundance of water.
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A brief summary to Fontana del Garraffo
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Piazza Marina, Palermo, Metropolitan City of Palermo, 90133, IT
Discover more about Fontana del Garraffo
The Fontana del Garraffo, a Baroque fountain sculpted by Gioacchino Vitagliano in 1698 based on a design by Paolo Amato, graces Piazza Marina in Palermo. The fountain's name is derived from the Arabic term 'Gharraf', which translates to 'abundance of water'.
The fountain features a marble structure with a pool topped by a pyramidal arrangement. At its apex, a statue of the goddess of abundance riding an eagle that battles a hydra. Dolphins adorn the sides of the central pillar, supporting shell-shaped basins. Water flows from the hydra's mouths into the basins below, eventually cascading into the surrounding pool.
Originally, the Fontana del Garraffo stood in the Vucciria market, near the Genio del Garraffo. In 1862, it was relocated to Piazza Marina, a square with historical significance. Piazza Marina was once a swamp connected to Palermo's ancient port. During the Spanish period, the square was used for convictions by the Inquisition. Today, Piazza Marina is a vibrant space, home to the Garibaldi Garden and surrounded by notable buildings.
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Getting There
Walking
From the Quattro Canti, walk southeast along Via Vittorio Emanuele. Piazza Marina will be on your left, approximately a 10-minute walk. No costs involved.
Public Transport
From Palermo Centrale train station, take bus line 101 or 102 towards Piazza Marina. Get off at the Roma Vucciria stop, which is a 1-minute walk to the piazza. A single ticket costs €1.40 and is valid for 90 minutes.
Taxi
From the Palermo Centrale train station, a taxi to Piazza Marina will cost approximately €12-€16 and take about 7 minutes. Taxi fares may vary depending on traffic.
A brief summary to Fontana del Garraffo
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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