Quattro Canti, where the four ancient quarters of Palermo meet at the intersection of Via Maqueda and Corso Vittorio Emanuele, is also known as Teatro del Sole. As you can see from this photo by my cousin Filippo Buttitta, throughout each day and throughout each season, the sun lights up the statues on the four 17th-century building facades.

During the month of October, when this photo was taken, Palermo hosts “Le Vie dei Tesori,” an art and heritage festival (“Treasure Streets”). During the session, the palazzo from where this photo was taken, hosts modern art exhibitions. It’s a strong example of the thrilling scene in Palermo, where the ancient sits side by side with the contemporary.