The square is actually a paved terrace located on the main street of Taormina. Its name comes from the date in 1860, when a rumor spread among the residents that Garibaldi, the liberator of Italy, was about to land in Marsala, a city on the west of the island, to free Sicily from the Bourbons.

A large crowd waited for the general until evening only to find out he was delayed. Garibaldi eventually arrived a month later, but the square’s name remains as a testament to the anticipation.

On one side of the square stands the Torre dell’Orologio e Porta di Mezzo (the Clock Tower and Middle Gate), which protected the city. In case of a northern invasion threat, the Middle Gate would be closed to prevent intruders from entering.

Also in the square is the Church of San Giuseppe, with two elegant staircases in front of it.

In the evenings, the terrace fills with portrait painters, street musicians, and visitors enjoying the viewpoint and relaxing at one of the cafes or gelaterias.