Sicily: Palermo – Exploring Centro Storico

Palermo was founded in 734 BC as Ziz (meaning “flower”), and has been shaped by Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, and Spanish, creating a unique cultural fusion evident in its architecture. The city showcases Arab-Norman, Byzantine, Baroque, and lArt Nouveau) styles, and is packed to the rim with UNESCO-listed sites. Centro Storico, is the historic heart of Sicily’s capital, a compact area perfect for exploring on foot. The true center is at around the iconic Quattro Canti where the main streets Via Maqueda and Corso Vittorio Emanuele intersect, dividing the old city into four historic districts. Here, at Quattro Canti, built in the early 17th century, four ornate facades with fountains representing the four seasons, create a perfect square or a cross and make for an awesome shot from the very center. Plenty of other places to see – the 16rh century Fontana Pretoria known as the “Fountain of Shame” due to its nude statues, many churches – Martorana, San Cataldo, Casa Professa, many squares, or just simply roaming the historic streets with centuries old buildings all around.