Piazza Università

Overview

Piazza Università is an elegant baroque square on Via Etnea, just north of Piazza del Duomo. Flanked by the Palazzo dell'Università and the Palazzo Sangiuliano, it serves as a quiet counterpart to the busier cathedral square.

Highlights

• Palazzo dell'Università: The historic seat of the University of Catania (founded 1434), with an arcaded courtyard open to visitors.
• Palazzo Sangiuliano: An imposing noble palace on the opposite side, with a richly decorated baroque façade.
• Evening illumination: Four ornamental candelabras depicting episodes from Catanian legend light up the square at night.

History

The square took shape during the 18th-century reconstruction and quickly became the city's intellectual centre thanks to the presence of the university. The four decorative lamp posts, added in 1957, depict legends of the city, including the story of Colapesce and the Paladin Uzeda.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Step into the university courtyard to see the 18th-century cloister — it's free and usually open.
• Tip 2: The square is a popular meeting point and starting place for evening passeggiata.
• Duration: 10–15 minutes.