In the heart of Palermo’s Piazza Pretoria, stands Fontana Pretoria, the work of sculptor Francesco Camilliani in 1554 and 1555 It’s decorated with animal heads, nymphs, monsters, ornamental staircases and balustrades as well as the gods and goddesses who make up the inhabitants of Mount Olympus. However, this ornate decorative wonder was not exactly welcomed with open armsContinue reading “The Fountain of Shame!”
Tag Archives: Italy
Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio
The church of Santa Maria dell’ Ammiraglio , commonly known as Martorana, is another ornate delight to be found overlooking Piazza Bellini. It’s a golden, glittering jewel that shimmers with a multitude of religious mosaics. The church is a mix of different cultural styles, all culminating in a glittering array of pattern and texture that bombardsContinue reading “Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio”
Sicily – chaos incarnate!
Finally getting around to document (in painfully minute detail) the latest Italian trip, this time to the island of Sicily. Sicily conquers up images of brooding Mount Etna, the shadowy tentacles of organised crime and chaotic excitement around every grimy corner. Well it certainly does chaos and grime fairly well I will freely admit! WeContinue reading “Sicily – chaos incarnate!”
Colourful Capri stalls
Still shifting through the past few years worth of photos in search of favourite market piccies. Here’s a myriad of colourful delights from the gorgeous little island of Capri. From the obvious Italian pastas to the island’s preocupation with lemons, there are so many lovely little knick knacks. There are also lots of incredible paintedContinue reading “Colourful Capri stalls”
How the Italians do markets
My market odyssey continues during various trips throughout Italy. The magical city of Florence has a wealth of impressive markets including the Central Market. Butchers, fishmongers and delis are on the main floor, while fruit and vegetable sellers are on the top floor, Colourful soaps in every colour and perfume beguile the grimy travellers while pasta comesContinue reading “How the Italians do markets”