Piazza dell'Universita (University Square), Catania

University Square is one of the city's symbols of Baroque design. Laid out after the devastating earthquake of 1693, it formed part of the city’s 18th-century reconstruction. Compared with the busier squares nearby, University Square has a calmer, more composed atmosphere.

The square takes its name from the University of Catania. Late Baroque palaces associated with the university line the square. For this reason, the square is also sometimes referred to as Student Square. Facing the west side of the square, the University Palace serves as the institution’s main seat. To the right corner of the north side, stands Gioeni Palace, while San Giuliano Palace completes the frame on the east side.

At the center of University Square stand four elaborate bronze lampposts designed by Vincenzo Corsaro, arranged together like a monumental candelabrum. Each lamppost is richly sculpted and illustrates a story drawn from Sicilian legend or history, celebrating virtues traditionally admired on the island: chastity, represented by Gammazita; patriotism, embodied by Paladin; filial devotion, shown by the Brothers Pii; and cleverness, symbolized by Colapesce.

Gammazita is located at the north-east corner, near San Giuliano Palace, depicting a woman who dives into a well to escape a soldier. Paladin stands at the south-east corner, showing a knight overcoming a Saracen. The Brothers Pii, at the north-west corner, near the University Palace, portray siblings saving their parents from a river of lava. Finally, Colapesce, at the south-west corner, represents the legendary youth who dives beneath the sea to support the island and is never seen again.