Piazza Stesicoro

Overview

Piazza Stesicoro is one of Catania's main squares, named after the ancient Greek poet Stesichorus who reportedly lived in the city. The square is dominated by a monument to Vincenzo Bellini and by the excavated remains of the Roman amphitheatre visible below street level.

Highlights

• Bellini Monument: A large marble statue of the composer surrounded by allegorical figures representing his most famous operas.
• Amphitheatre ruins: A sunken section of the ancient Roman arena, dramatically situated in the middle of the square.
• Commercial hub: Surrounded by shops, the square marks the transition from baroque old town to the 19th-century city.

History

The square was laid out in its current form in the 19th century, when the monument to Bellini was erected (1882). Excavations in the 1900s revealed the amphitheatre beneath, and a section was left permanently exposed. The name honours Stesichorus (c. 630–555 BC), a lyric poet said to have been buried in Catania.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Combine a look at the exposed amphitheatre with the underground ticket tour for the full experience.
• Tip 2: Several good gelaterias and pastry shops face the square.
• Duration: 15–25 minutes.