 Piazza Verdi in Palermo is found at the end of the Via Bara all’ Olivia. It has been named in honour of the famous Italian composer Guiseppe Verdi This is indeed an apt name for a square, which is almost completely identified by the Teatro Massimo
Teatro Massimo was built between 1875 and 1897 in neo classical style. It is one of the most beautiful theatres in Europe. It is considered as the third largest theatre in Europe and the largest in Italy.
 Teatro Massimo was designed by the Palermo architect Giovan Battista Basil. His son Ernesto with a team of architects, artists, painters and decorators completed it.
The exterior of the theatre resembles the architectural style of Tivoli. There are massive Corinthian pillars. There is a majestic staircase. By the stairway there is a bust of Guiseppe Verdi a work by Antonio Ugo. Two massive bronze lions flank the entrance. Two female figures symbolizing Tragedy sculpted by Benedetto Civiletti on the right and Comedy sculpted by Mario Rutelli on the left are mounted on the lions.
 Inside the theatre the wide foyer opens to a square hall, which leads to the auditorium and steps to the boxes. There is a majestic frieze in the foyer and beautiful candelabra. The auditorium is magnificently decorated with paintings especially the splendid ceiling painting of The Triumph of Music by Rocco Lentini. The Pompeian Room, the Royal Box and the Coat of Arms Room are also very beautiful.
 The Teatro Massimo, dedicated to King Victor Emmanuelle II, was inaugurated on May 16, 1897. The first performance in this grand Opera House was Guiseppe Verdi’s Falstaff. Leopold Mugnone was the conductor. Attending an opera or performance at Teatro Massimo is an excellent way of spending an evening in Palermo. However if you are not able to do so do go for a guided tour around the theatre, which is well worth the entrance fee.
Piazza Verdi is one of the liveliest squares in Palermo. It has numerous cafes and bars. It is generally filled with people in the evenings and is relatively safe. The northern streets of the piazza are very grand and has a thriving nightlife. It is considered to be the place to be seen having a pizza and watching the world go by. |
