Drawn from Florence in over six hundred pieces, the Pretoria Fountain now graces this very spot. Imagine the journey. It was carefully disassembled for transport to Palermo in 1574.
The Pretoria Fountain wasn’t always destined for Palermo. Originally crafted in 1554 by Francesco Camilliani, it was meant for a Florentine villa’s garden. Luigi de Toledo, the owner, fell into debt. He sold the fountain to Palermo’s Senate in 1573. They wanted to beautify the square in front of the Palazzo Pretorio.
Upon arrival some sculptures of the Pretoria Fountain were damaged. Other statues were never shipped. Camillo Camilliani, Francesco’s son, reassembled it. He modified the design to fit its new home. Michelangelo Naccherino assisted him and completed the work in 1581.
Look closely at the Pretoria Fountain. It features the Twelve Olympians, mythological figures, animals, and Palermo’s rivers. The fountain is an elliptical plan. It has concentric basins on three levels. Staircases connect these levels. Marvel at the Carrara marble statues. Pagan gods, sea monsters, tritons, and mermaids fill the Fontana Pretoria.
Notice the fountains 37 statues, 24 animal heads, and 20 basins. Spot Bacchus, Hercules, Diana, Apollo, Venus, and Adonis. They stand along the basins edges, surrounded by a marble balustrade. The Pretoria Fountain showcases the city’s connection to its waterways. The Papireto, Oreto, Gabriele, and Maredolce rivers are represented.
Between the 18th and 19th centuries, a different view took hold. Locals saw the Pretoria Fountain as a symbol of Palermo’s corrupt municipality. The nudity of the statues led to its nickname. It became known as the “Fountain of Shame”. Palermitans called the square “Piazza della Vergogna”. Even Goethe was shocked by the sight of the Pretoria Fountain.
The Pretoria Fountain has undergone restoration. A significant restoration was completed in 2003. This ensured the fountain’s beauty endures.
Considered one of Palermo’s most iconic landmarks the Pretoria Fountain attracts photographers. They capture its detailed sculptures and beautiful surroundings. Sometimes the gates open. Visitors can wander among the sculptures of the Pretoria Fountain.
Today the Pretoria Fountain stands as a testament to Palermo’s rich history. It is an extraordinary work of art. It also reflects the city’s social contradictions. From Florence to Palermo, its journey is complete. The Pretoria Fountain is a symbol of artistic beauty. It also embodies the complexities of Palermitan identity.