Other squares and places in Palermo

Water towers of Palermo

The water towers (torri d’acqua) of Palermo – sometimes called “castelletti” – are historic vertical structures that were part of the city’s traditional water distribution system until the early 20th century. They exploited the principle of communicating vessels: water, captured from natural springs around the Conca d’Oro, was conveyed through underground channels and terracotta pipes to these towers, where it was stored at height to ensure gravity-fed distribution in the urban districts.

Water tower of the Seven Fairies (Sette Fate) near Ballaro

Built from the 16th century onwards, often leaning against the city walls or integrated into urban planning, they were numerous (up to 67 recorded in the 19th century) before becoming obsolete with the advent of a modern aqueduct and cast-iron pipes in the early 20th century.
Architecturally simple, sometimes trapezoidal or rectangular, with external metal staircases and collection basins at the top, these towers provided not only drinking water but also a visual landmark in the urban landscape.

Today, a few survive as scattered vestiges in the fabric of the city — in areas such as the Zisa, Piazza della Pinta or near the old walls.

Fountain of the Two Dragons

Fountain of the Two Dragons

The Fountain of the Two Dragons (Fontana dei Due Draghi) is a historic fountain located on Corso Calatafimi, along the road once called Mezzomonreale, which connected the city to Monreale. It was designed in 1630 on a Baroque plan by Mariano Smiriglio and executed by the Palermitan sculptor Nunzio La Mattina, in marble, with two opposing dragon figures pouring water into a circular basin.
A curious acoustic effect is reputed on the semicircular wall that borders it: a person at one end can distinctly hear another at the other end.
This fountain is the last survivor of a group of five decorative fountains that once lined this great communication route, which was considerably transformed.

Statue of Liberty and monument to the dead of 15-18

Piazza Vittorio Veneto, at the end of Via della Libertà

Articles: monuments of Palermo