Piazza Pretoria, also known as Piazza della Vergogna (Square of Shame), is a large square located in the heart of Palermo, the capital of the Italian island of Sicily. The square is famous for its stunning fountain, the Fontana Pretoria, which is considered to be one of the most beautiful fountains in Italy.
The Fontana Pretoria was built in the 16th century by Francesco Camilliani for a garden in Florence, but was later sold to the city of Palermo in 1574. It was reassembled in Piazza Pretoria in 1581 and has been a popular attraction ever since. The fountain is decorated with over 30 figures, including gods, goddesses, mythological creatures, and animals. The figures are all naked and many are depicted in erotic or suggestive poses, leading to the square's nickname of "Square of Shame".
Piazza Pretoria is also home to several notable buildings, including the Palazzo Pretorio, the Palazzo Bonocore, and the Chiesa di Santa Caterina. The Palazzo Pretorio is a medieval palace that now houses the Municipal Art Gallery, which features a collection of paintings and sculptures by artists from the 15th to the 20th century. The Palazzo Bonocore is a Renaissance-era palace that now serves as a hotel, while the Chiesa di Santa Caterina is a 16th-century church with a beautiful baroque façade.
Piazza Pretoria is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike, and is surrounded by restaurants, cafés, and shops. It is also the site of several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Fiera del Mediterraneo, a large international trade fair held every September.