Piazza Duomo is the main square of Catania, considered by some topographers as the Sicilian interpretation of the "trident" in Piazza del Popolo in Rome. It converges three major thoroughfares of the historic center: Via Etnea, Via Vittorio Emanuele, and Via Garibaldi.
Built after the earthquake of 1693, it underwent a complete renovation in 2008 and still serves as the seat of ecclesiastical and civic power. On the north side, you'll find the Palazzo degli Elefanti or Loggia, housing the City Hall; on the opposite side, the Amenano Fountain, leading towards the characteristic area of the Pescheria (fish market); adjacent to it, Palazzo dei Chierici and Porta Uzeda; and to the east, the dominant Cathedral of Sant'Agata, the city's cathedral, from which the square takes its name. Beneath the street surface lie the remains of the Achilliane Baths.
At the center reigns the famous Elephant Fountain, built by the architect Gianbattista Vaccarini in 1757 and subsequently modified, topped with the renowned "Liotru," a statue of the city's symbol, believed to be of Roman origin.
During daily city life and solemn occasions, Piazza Duomo is the meeting place for the people of Catania.