Fountain of the Elephant – the Sicilian symbol in the heart of Piazza Duomo

History and description

Designed between 1735 and 1737 by Giovanni Battista Vaccarini, who drew inspiration from Bernini’s Elephant and Obelisk, the fountain was built using materials recovered from the rubble of the 1693 earthquake and underwent modifications until 1998. It consists of a basin and a base in white marble, decorated with allegorical scenes, and at its center stands the statue of the elephant. On its back rests an Egyptian obelisk, 3.66 meters high, topped with a globe, a palm crown, a lily branch, a tablet with an acronym, and finally a cross.

Curiosities

Having become the official symbol of the city in 1239, the monument is called “Liotru” in the local dialect. According to legend, the name derives from Eliodoro, a Catanese magician who was burned alive after allegedly bringing the elephant to life.

Access

Located in a public square, the fountain is freely accessible at any time of day.

How to reach it

Situated in the heart of Catania, the monument can be reached by bus or car (with parking available nearby), or on foot while strolling through the historic center.

A central landmark in any itinerary through Catania, the Fountain of the Elephant is an essential stop in discovering the city.

Photo credits: Luca Aless (Wikipedia) - Licensed by CC 4.0