Quattro Canti travel guide

The Quattro Canti, or 'Four Corners', is a Baroque square located in the heart of Palermo. Officially known as Piazza Vigliena, it was built between 1608 and 1620 during the height of the Spanish Inquisition. The square is octagonal in shape, with four streets intersecting at right angles and four buildings facing each other.

Each of the four buildings has three levels, decorated with statues, fountains, and columns. The statues represent the four seasons, the Spanish kings of Sicily, and the patronesses of Palermo. These architectural details make Quattro Canti a remarkable example of Sicilian Baroque style.

The square has played a central role in the city's public life for centuries, hosting festivals, processions, and other events. Today, it continues to be a popular meeting point for locals and tourists alike, offering a unique glimpse into Palermo's rich history and culture.

The Quattro Canti, or 'Four Corners', is a baroque square laid out on the orders of the Viceroys between 1608-1620. The square is octagonal in shape, making it a rare, perfect example of Baroque style. Each corner of this octagonal square offers a unique view of four different streets. The beauty of Quattro Canti lies in its detailed façades, which are adorned with sculptures, fountains, and pilasters. Each façade represents the four Spanish kings of Sicily and the four patronesses of Palermo: Saint Christina, Saint Ninfa, Saint Olivia, and Saint Agata. Another unique feature is its alignment with the sun. The square is perfectly oriented so that each façade is illuminated by the sun at the exact moment of the equinox, a testimony to the architectural precision that went into its design.

Located in the dynamic Palermo, the popular Quattro Canti is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful street of Palermo or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Italy.

Palermo is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Palermo offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Palermo and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Palermo Cathedral, Norman Palace, Catacombe dei Cappuccini, Foro Italico, and Orto Botanico di Palermo.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Palermo has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Palermo, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Italy!

Quattro Canti is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Palermo, Italy. If you're flying in, Falcone–Borsellino Airport is approximately 15 miles (24.1 km) away from Palermo. From there, you can easily reach Quattro Canti by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Palermo, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Quattro Canti, which is located 0.6 miles (0.9 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Quattro Canti, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Piazza Vigliena, 90133 Palermo PA, Italy.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Quattro Canti!

The best time to explore Quattro Canti, the iconic four corners in Palermo, Italy, is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). These seasons offer the most pleasant weather conditions with temperatures averaging between 15°C and 25°C, making it comfortable to wander around and appreciate the architecture. During these periods, the area is less crowded compared to the peak tourist season in summer, which provides a more relaxed, authentic experience. Special events, such as the Feast of Santa Rosalia, the city's patron saint, in mid-July, add to the cultural richness of a visit, despite the heat and crowds. Visiting during early morning or late afternoon is recommended for the best light to photograph the baroque facades. Remember, timing can also impact your dining options as many local restaurants close in the afternoon for riposo, a traditional Italian break. Therefore, plan your meals accordingly.

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Quattro Canti and other top attractions in Palermo than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Palermo include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Quattro Canti's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Quattro Canti and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind square in Italy.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Quattro Canti and Italy's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Falcone–Borsellino Airport and the street of Palermo, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Italy cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Palermo and beyond.

Conveniently explore Quattro Canti and plenty more captivating attractions in Palermo by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the street. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Quattro Canti and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Palermo has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Quattro Canti below.

Aside from Quattro Canti, Palermo is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the street offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Palermo, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Palermo Cathedral, Norman Palace, and Catacombe dei Cappuccini.

Palermo Cathedral is a bucket-list church and top attraction in Palermo, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 35,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the street. The exact address of Palermo Cathedral is Via Vittorio Emanuele, 490, 90134 Palermo PA, Italy.

Another appreciated attraction in Palermo is Norman Palace. Like Palermo Cathedral, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the street. With an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars among 19,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this museum is Piazza del Parlamento, 1, 90129 Palermo PA, Italy.

Catacombe dei Cappuccini is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Palermo. This museum and top attraction in Palermo has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 10,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Piazza Cappuccini, 1, 90129 Palermo PA, Italy.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the street of Palermo below.