Piazza Pretoria, Palermo

Piazza Pretoria, often referred to as the "Square of Shame" due to the nude statues that adorn its central fountain, is a grand square located in the heart of Palermo, Italy. The square is dominated by the Fontana Pretoria, a monumental fountain that dates back to the 16th century. This impressive Renaissance masterpiece was originally designed for a Florentine villa but was purchased by the city of Palermo in 1573 and carefully reassembled in its current location.

The square is surrounded by important historical buildings, including the Palermo City Hall (Palazzo delle Aquile), the Church of Santa Caterina, and several baroque palaces, which add to the square's architectural significance and aesthetic appeal. The fountain itself is a complex work of art featuring mythological figures, animals, and allegorical statues that represent the rivers of Palermo.

Despite its controversial past, where the nudity of the statues was considered scandalous, Piazza Pretoria is now embraced as one of the city's most beautiful and iconic public spaces. Visitors are drawn to the intricate details of the fountain and the stunning backdrop of the surrounding buildings.