Teatro Politeama Garibaldi: Palermo's 'People's Theater'
Experience Palermo's cultural heart at Teatro Politeama Garibaldi, a stunning neoclassical theater and home to the Sicilian Symphony Orchestra.
The Teatro Politeama Garibaldi, commonly known as Teatro Politeama, stands as a testament to Palermo's vibrant cultural life. Situated on Piazza Ruggero Settimo, it is considered the heart of the city and serves as the primary venue for the Orchestra Sinfonica Siciliana. In 1865, the municipality of Palermo decided to construct a 'Politeama,' meaning a multi-purpose theater, to offer more popular shows compared to the Teatro Massimo. Giuseppe Damiani Almeyda won the architectural project, envisioning the theater as a visual reference point for the city's expansion. Construction began in 1867, initially as an open-air amphitheater, but was later transformed into a proper theater. The theater was partially opened in 1874 but fully completed in 1891. The Teatro Politeama showcases neoclassical architecture with a triumphal arch entrance adorned with a bronze quadriga of Apollo and Euterpe by Mario Rutelli. The interior features a horseshoe-shaped hall with two levels of boxes and a gallery, designed to accommodate up to 5,000 spectators. Today, the Teatro Politeama Garibaldi continues to host a variety of performances and concerts, maintaining its role as a cultural hub in Palermo.
Local tips
- Check the Orchestra Sinfonica Siciliana's schedule for concerts and performances at the Teatro Politeama.
- Explore the area around Piazza Ruggero Settimo, known as the heart of modern Palermo, with numerous shops and cafes.
- Visit the Modern Art Gallery on the top floor of the theater to view artifacts from the 18th and 19th centuries.
A brief summary to Teatro Politeama Garibaldi
- Via Filippo Turati, 2, Palermo, Metropolitan City of Palermo, 90139, IT
- +390916072532
- Visit website
Getting There
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Walking
From Piazza Castelnuovo, walk east along Via Ruggero Settimo towards Piazza Ruggero Settimo. The Teatro Politeama Garibaldi will be on your right, dominating the square. This is a straightforward walk of a few minutes.
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Public Transport
Several bus lines stop near Teatro Politeama Garibaldi. Check local bus routes (e.g., 101, 104, 106) for the most convenient option from your location. A single bus ticket costs €1.40 and is valid for 90 minutes. You can purchase tickets at AMAT kiosks, tabacchi shops, or newsagents.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Palermo. A short taxi ride from the Palermo Centrale train station to Teatro Politeama Garibaldi typically costs between €9 and €12 and takes approximately 4 minutes. Taxi fares generally start at €1.50 per kilometer. Keep in mind that fares can vary depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.
