Picture this: you are standing before Porta di Vicari. Its imposing presence speaks of a rich history a history woven into the very fabric of Palermo. This isn’t just any gate. Porta di Vicari also known as Porta Sant’Antonino stands at the southern end of Via Maqueda. It marked the end of this grand artery a street that dramatically reshaped Palermo in the 17th century.
Originally built around 1600 Porta di Vicari’s first name was not what we know today. It was meant to be named Porta Manriguez. This was to honor Aloisa Manriguez the wife of Viceroy Bernardino de Cardenas y Portugal. He also gave his name to the Porta Maqueda at the northern end of Via Maqueda. The two gates were to be a pair a testament to their love. But fate intervened. The Viceroy died. Porta Manriguez became Porta di Vicari named after the city’s magistrate Francesco del Bosco.
Over the centuries Porta di Vicari underwent numerous transformations. In 1637 it received its first restoration and beautification. Later in 1716 and 1778 more improvements were added. Andrea Palma designed and executed the decorations in 1716. The inner facade was enriched with pillars and columns in 1778.
But its story is not one of continuous survival. In 1789 Porta di Vicari and its adjacent bastion were demolished. A new version was constructed a short distance away. This new structure lacked the original archway instead featuring two towering pylons. The pylons are adorned with fountains. Each fountain bears the coats of arms of important figures. One shows the arms of Girolamo Grifeo Prince of Partanna. The other shows the arms of Girolamo Corvino Prince of Mezzojuso.
Today Porta di Vicari stands as a testament to Palermo’s ever-changing landscape. It reflects the city’s resilience its blend of old and new. Its current form while different from its predecessor still holds the essence of its past. Each stone seems to whisper tales of viceroys magistrates and the bustling life that once flowed through its grand gateway. Look closely at its elegant simplicity at its quiet strength. You’re seeing more than just a gate. You are witnessing a chapter in the grand history of Palermo.