Piazza del Duomo is the central square of the city of Catania. At its center stands the fountain featuring the famous elephant, known locally as “O Liotru.” The base of the fountain is made of marble, the elephant is carved from black lava stone, and the prominent obelisk was brought here during one of the Crusades.
The fountain was created by the renowned architect Giovanni Battista Vaccarini, who also designed the surrounding buildings, such as Palazzo degli Elefanti (City Hall), Palazzo dei Chierici, and of course, the Cathedral of Saint Agatha.
At the edge of the square is another fountain representing the Amenano River, which flows beneath the city. From the square extends Via Atenea, the main street, lined with shops, cafés, and elegant buildings.