Quattro Canti: The Heart of Palermo
Discover the enchanting Quattro Canti, a Baroque masterpiece in Palermo, where history and culture converge in a vibrant plaza.
A brief summary to Quattro Canti
- Piazza Vigliena, Palermo, Metropolitan City of Palermo, 90133, IT
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Quattro Canti, also known as Piazza Vigliena, is a stunning Baroque square located at the intersection of two major streets in Palermo, Sicily. This historical landmark is distinguished by its four beautifully adorned facades, each representing one of the four seasons, along with the four Spanish kings who ruled Sicily. Visitors to Quattro Canti will be captivated by the intricate sculptures and vibrant tiles that adorn the buildings, creating a postcard-perfect scene that exemplifies Palermo's rich architectural heritage. The plaza serves as a central meeting point and a lively hub for both locals and tourists alike, making it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the ambiance of the city. As you wander through Quattro Canti, take a moment to appreciate the surrounding cafes and shops that add to the vibrant atmosphere. The square is often bustling with street performers and artists, providing a dynamic cultural experience that enhances your visit. For those interested in photography, this location is a treasure trove of picturesque views, especially during the golden hour when the sunlight casts a warm glow on the facades. The square's strategic location also makes it easy to explore nearby attractions such as the stunning Palermo Cathedral and the historic Teatro Massimo. Whether you're sipping a coffee, enjoying a gelato, or simply taking in the sights, Quattro Canti promises an unforgettable experience that showcases the heart and soul of Palermo.
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and better lighting for photography.
- Take a moment to enjoy a local pastry at one of the nearby cafes for an authentic Sicilian experience.
- Don't miss the opportunity to explore the surrounding streets filled with unique shops and local artisans.
Getting There
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Walking
If you're starting from the Palermo Cathedral, exit the cathedral and head south on Via Matteo Bonello. Continue straight until you reach Piazza Bellini, where you’ll find the Church of Santa Maria dell'Ammiraglio (La Martorana). From there, walk across Piazza Bellini towards Via Maqueda. Take a left onto Via Maqueda, and continue walking for about 5 minutes until you reach Quattro Canti, which will be at the intersection with Via Vittorio Emanuele.
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Walking
From the Teatro Massimo, exit the theatre and head east on Via Springhetti. Turn right onto Via Roma and walk for about 10 minutes. At the intersection, you’ll see Quattro Canti to your left, at the junction of Via Maqueda and Via Vittorio Emanuele.
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Public Transport (Bus)
If you're near the Politeama Theatre, you can take bus line 101 or 102 towards the Central Station. Get off at the stop 'Piazza Verdi'. From there, walk east on Via Maqueda for about 8 minutes, and you will reach Quattro Canti on your right at the intersection with Via Vittorio Emanuele.
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Walking
If you are at the Mercato di Ballarò, exit the market and head southwest on Via Ballarò. Continue walking straight until you reach Via Maqueda. Take a left on Via Maqueda and walk for about 10 minutes. Quattro Canti will be on your right at the intersection with Via Vittorio Emanuele.
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Walking
Starting from the Capella Palatina (Palatine Chapel), exit the chapel and head east on Via dello Spedale, then take a left onto Via Vittorio Emanuele. Walk straight for about 5 minutes, and you will arrive at Quattro Canti, which will be on your left at the crossroads with Via Maqueda.
Attractions Nearby to Quattro Canti
- Ville de Palerme
- Church of San Giuseppe dei Padri Teatini
- Piazza Pretoria
- Fontana Pretoria
- Palazzo Pretorio
- Palazzo delle Aquile
- Chiesa Oratorio di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria d'Egitto vergine e martire
- Piazza Bellini
- Chiesa di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria
- No Mafia Memorial
- San Matteo al Cassaro
- Church of San Cataldo
- Chiesa di Santa Ninfa dei Crociferi
- Monastero Santa Caterina
- Piazza Bologni
Landmarks nearby to Quattro Canti
- Carrozze siciliane
- Palazzo Costantino
- Palazzo Bonocore
- Genio del Garraffo o Palermo lu Grandi
- La loggia Apartment
- Alla Loggia Del Gattopardo B&B
- Guida Turistica Palermo - Tourist Guide - Guide Palerme
- La loggia dei re
- Church of Saint Domenico
- The palm tree house
- Genius of Palermo Statue
- Palermo Cathedral
- Tempio Munito Fortezza Mistica
- La Loggia
- Palazzo Asmundo