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The Palermitans are the inhabitants of one of the most magnificent and complex cities throughout Sicily. Palermo is the trigger to unforgettable architectural explorations, cuisine tasting and unique sunsets. And don’t think that a day in this environment will be enough to get to know it in its well-deserved depth. The journey amongst the city’s Baroque, Romanesque and Gothic churches and palaces is amazing and it requires time to properly enjoy the views.

Nowhere throughout Sicily can there be found the most spectacular edifice, the most intriguing flavor or the most amazing handcraft. They are unique in everything they represent and equally magnificent.

The Baroque style is intensely spread all over the island. Nevertheless, Palermo is a real delight from this point of view. It represents a real heir of the Baroque throne and scatters the Baroque vibe all over its streets and in all of its corners. The square named “Quattro Canti” is a sheer Baroque gem and, as the city got everybody used to, it highlights the quintessence of artists that marked the times of its erection. Built between 1608 and1620, it was laid out on the orders of the Spanish Viceroy. History shows that it was the masterpiece of the great Italian architect Giulio Lasso, although he didn’t get to live until the day the project saw the light of day.

This eight-sided piazza is the outcome of road straightening and widening scheme which marked it as an early example of architectural town planning. Also known as Piazza Vigilena, this square is located at the crossing point of the main streets in Palermo, Via Maqueda and the Corso Vittorio Emanuele. Its sides are made of four streets and four Baroque buildings embellished with beautiful statues and fountains.

The ground level is marked by fountains followed by sculpted statues on the three upper floors. Next to the sculptures that symbolize the four seasons at the bottom were added statues representing the four Spanish kings that ruled starting with 1516: Charles V, Philip II, III and IV. The uppermost level is dominated by the female patron saints: Cristina, Ninfa, Oliva and Agata. The fountains’ height reaches the second floor and adds a certain splendor to this circular fashionable square. The presence of three architectural orders, Doric, Corinthian and Ionic actively participate in making a setting-out point for prolonged walks.

The Quattro Canti is the traditional center of Palermo. Anybody who chooses to go to Palermo should know that visiting the historic side of Palermo is a must. Once arrived in the heart of the city, you may not go back without enjoying the magnificence of Lasso’s work.