WHAT TO SEE AND DO
PALAZZO BUTERA Via Butera, 8 www.palazzobutera.it
This recently restored 18th-century palazzo now houses a fantastically eclectic art collection. The building is a treasure in its own right, and its carefully curated selection of works is unlike any other – a fascinating juxtaposition of styles and periods. It’s easy to while away an entire day here.
FICUS MACROPHYLLA Piazza Marina
It’s impossible to miss the striking ‘strangler fig’ in Piazza Marina. Planted by Giovan Battista Filippo Basile in 1863, it has grown into a singularly impressive specimen. Its extravagant size has been ascribed to macabre legend: adjacent Palazzo Chiaramonti-Steri was the seat of the Inquisition in the 1600s, and it’s said that the blood of prisoners put to death on this spot engendered the tree’s vigorous growth.
MONTE PELLEGRINO
Whether you want panoramic views, an invigorating hike or a chance to visit the atmospheric Santuario di Santa Rosalia, Monte Pellegrino offers an enticing option for getting out of the city and looking at Palermo and its environs from above. Take the bus line 812 if you don’t fancy walking to the top.
PIAZZA PRETORIA
This grand piazza is dominated by Francesco Camilliani’s Fontana Pretoria, a stunning piece of art featuring an almost exclusively naked cast of sculptures, which helped the monument earn the nickname ‘Fontana della Vergogna’ (Fountain of Shame) among prudish locals in the 18th and 19th centuries. Chiesa di Santa Caterina in the piazza is also lovely, with a rooftop you can access for city views.
TEATRO MASSIMO Piazza Giuseppe Verdi www.teatromassimo.it
The grand, Neoclassical Teatro Massimo Vittorio Emanuele is one of the largest opera houses in Europe and is the perfect place to spend an evening – check the website before your trip and book early to ensure a seat and experience the venue’s legendary acoustics. The theatre first opened its doors in 1897 and has a rich history; guided tours are available and provide an intimate way to explore this landmark in more depth.