Tourists choose the Quattro Canti architectural complex as a starting point of exploration of landmarks and sights of Palermo city. Its name can be literally translated as Four Corners. The complex encompasses four buildings which are located by the sides of a crossroad. The construction of the buildings was held in the 17th century. The buildings are executed in baroque style and feature unique frontage decoration. The bottom of the complex features fountains of ultimate beauty meanwhile the upper part of the complex is decorated with statues embodying Sicilian Kings and patron saints.
The city has preserved numerous monuments and landmarks of Norman architecture. The most remarkable and tourist attracting among them is the Capella Palatina. The construction of chapel was started in 1130 and lasted for 10 years. The decoration and design of the interior lasted till 1460. During a tour travelers will be offered to look into the chapel and enjoy the majesty of ancient mosaics, marble articles and other antique artifacts.
Another remarkable landmark of Palermo is the Porta Nuova. The gate serves as a symbolic entrance to the historical center of the city. The gate was built in the second part of the 17th century. The construction presents a complex architectural composition of ingenious statues, large stanzas and pyramid shaped cupola. The most remarkable and significant historical landmark of the 18th century is the Orlean Palace which serves as the main residence of the president of Sicily from the 1947.
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