Fontana dell’Amenano

The Fontana dell’Amenano is one of Catania’s most graceful and refreshing landmarks, offering a soothing contrast to the lively energy of Piazza Duomo. Tucked beside the bustling entrance of the famous fish market, the fountain immediately captivates with its delicate elegance and soft, cascading water. Carved from pristine white marble, it embodies a refined neoclassical style that stands out beautifully amid the city’s darker lava-stone architecture. The fountain represents the river Amenano, which once flowed above ground but now runs beneath the city. The water spills gently over the basin, creating what many describe as a “sheet of water” that adds a serene ambiance to the surrounding area. This fluid, almost poetic movement makes the fountain both visually appealing and soothing to listen to, especially in contrast with the lively chatter coming from the nearby market. One of the most enjoyable aspects of visiting the Fontana dell’Amenano is the atmosphere it creates. It serves as a natural meeting point, a spot where tourists pause for photographs, where locals gather briefly, and where the daily life of Catania unfolds around it. Its placement marks the threshold between the architectural elegance of the main square and the colorful chaos of the fish market below, offering a symbolic transition from calm to vibrancy. Whether admired for its beauty, its tranquil sound, or its connection to the city’s hidden river, the Fontana dell’Amenano is a charming stop that enhances any visit to Catania. Its understated charm makes it a small yet memorable highlight of the city.

A beautiful fountain that deserves to be placed in the town square, not stuck in a corner. The building next to it is under repair and the scaffolding gives poor pictures, such a shame.

In corner of the duomo square is the Amenano fountain - reminder of the Amenano river, on which shores Catania was built until volcanic eruption covered the river. But residents digged thru lava rock until finding a water jet, where later the fountain was installed. Nowadays the river runs under the city. It's shame this fountain is so squished between buildings, with ugly fence around it.

Nice statuary with a river running under it, and over some type of waterfall

Great place to get a start off the day, grab a fresh coffee & hot cornetto and watch the fish market set up behind the fountain.

Beautiful 19th century fountain by Tito Angelini, just between the square and the fish market.

We went on an NCL cruise last year from Venice to Portugal. One stop was Catania. We got off the ship and walked around on a self guided tour using Google maps and my research. This piazza was very picturesque with the fountain.

A little hidden gem. Good place to begin to explore the fish market.