Fontana dell'Elefante (uʻ Liotru)

The Fontana dell’Elefante, affectionately known as “u Liotru,” is one of the most charming and iconic symbols of Catania. Located in the bustling Piazza Duomo, this unusual monument immediately captures attention with its whimsical design and deep cultural significance. At its center stands the famous black lava stone elephant, a figure that has become inseparable from the city’s identity. Its expressive, almost playful appearance contrasts beautifully with the elegant Baroque elements that surround it. The fountain’s composition is both unexpected and captivating. The elephant supports an Egyptian-style obelisk, creating a striking visual combination that feels at once historic, mystical, and delightfully quirky. This unlikely pairing sparks curiosity and invites visitors to explore its legends, many of which reflect Catania’s complex past and the clever imagination of its people. The location of the fountain enhances its appeal. As the focal point of the square, it offers a perfect vantage point to take in the cathedral, surrounding palaces, and the lively urban atmosphere. Whether visited in the golden morning light or during the vibrant evening hours, the monument feels alive, continuously engaging locals and travelers alike. Beyond its artistic qualities, the Fontana dell’Elefante serves as a beloved cultural emblem. It represents resilience, humor, and the unique spirit that defines Catania. Spending time near the fountain provides not only a visual treat but also a glimpse into the soul of the city. For anyone exploring Catania, “u Liotru” is an essential stop—memorable, distinctive, and deeply connected to the character of the place.

Day or night worth visiting. So much of history and stories at this square. Been there for 5 consecutive evenings and every time there were multiple live singers performing. The Elephant Fountain from 1737 had garden around until 1998, fountain contains depictions of 2 Catania's rivers. Elephant became symbol of Catania. An ancient tale claims a dwarf elephant lived in Sicily and defended early Catanese people from wild animals. Or that the 8th-century magician Eliodoro (hence "Liotru") created the lava stone elephant to protect Catania from Etna's eruptions and to be kept as a magical talisman. Elephant is made from basalt - cooled down lava as a reminder of Mount Etna vulcano. It was inspired by the 'Elephant and obelisk' from 1667, standing in Minerva, Rome. That one carries real Egyptian obelisk with hieroglyphs. One in Catania has meaningless hieroglyphs-like carvings.

It is a large square, with many tourists and cafes around it, a charm. In the same square, there is a family restaurant, a fonde, a church and the city hall.

A sight I did not expect to see when visiting and walking around this town. There are a few references to elephants locally, this one being the most impressive. Right on the centre of the town square with the cathedral nearby.

Wonderful sight in the city square. I never knew about the elephant and what it symbolizes in Catania. Great shops here, plentey of restaurants, churches, loved seeing all the Christmas markets during December - they were everywhere here! See the elephant if you're in Catania, he's beautiful!

What a lively place! It is busy with performers, parties, and people walking around even into the early morning hours. There are lots of shops and restaurants within walking distance. It is lovely in the morning too when it's quiet. Our hotel was a few blocks away so every night we were in the Duomo area having dinner and people watching after a long day being tourists and exploring the surrounding areas.

Very picturesque square with an imposing statue

Great monument in the heart of Sicilian city of Catania, at the main square... This is also a beautiful fountain.... Always around you can see much people who take pictures or videos or just seat there or near and relax of long walk around city... This place is especially nice at night because of light around... People use this place when they want easier to find someone and just say we will see near the elephant ... One thing you must see if you are in Catania... All recommendations