Porta Nuova - Palermo

This gate is the entrance from the west side of the city. It is one of the most representative examples of triumphal architecture in Palermo.

It was built in memory of the solemn entry into Palermo of Emperor Charles V, which took place in 1535, when he returned from the victorious military campaign in Africa. However, construction did not begin until 1569 and was completed under the Viceroyalty of Marcantonio Colonna; The modestly existing fifteenth-century door was demolished for the construction.

However, its current appearance is due to the project of Gaspare Guercio, who rebuilt it in 1669 , faithful to its original forms, after an explosion of gunpowder , present in an adjacent warehouse, razed it to the ground.

The two facades present two different styles : the facade overlooking the city is more classic, structured as a triumphal arch on which is placed the airy Renaissance loggia that is also repeated on the outside, and also presents four female busts representing the four virtues (Peace, Justice , Truth and Abundance).

However, the exterior facade is still characterized by a Mannerist flavor, where the presence of Telamons (male figures that appear to support the construction) symbolizes the Moors subjugated by Charles V during the conquest of Tunis.

The gate is topped by a spire covered with majolica tiles with a drawing of an eagle with spread wings , the symbol of the city.

willem vandenameele