Fontana dei Malavoglia (Malavoglia Fountain), Catania

The Malavoglia Fountain, a monumental landmark in Catania, graces Giovanni Verga Square as a poignant tribute to the city’s literary and cultural legacy. Designed by Carmelo Mendola, a self-taught sculptor from Catania, the fountain commemorates Giovanni Verga, one of Italy’s most renowned writers and the author of the iconic 1881 novel I Malavoglia (The House by the Medlar Tree). The sculptural group stylizes a dramatic episode from the novel, encapsulating the hardships faced by the Malavoglia family and, symbolically, the struggles of the Sicilian people.

Born from a 1956 municipal competition to honor Verga, the fountain took nearly two decades to complete. Mendola’s winning design prevailed despite skepticism from contemporary artists, and the final work was inaugurated on October 25, 1975, shortly before the artist's death in February 1976.

Central to the fountain is a bronze depiction of the fishing boat “Provvidenza” caught amidst turbulent waves. This imagery powerfully conveys the novel’s themes of resilience and struggle, rendering the fountain not just a piece of public art but a visual narrative of Sicilian life. The dramatic interplay of water jets and lighting amplifies its scenographic effect, captivating visitors and symbolizing hope amidst adversity.

In 2021, the fountain underwent a comprehensive restoration. Updates included new water diffusion and electrical recycling systems, restored lighting, and a return to its original coloration. It was ceremoniously reopened to the public on September 3, 2021, under the stewardship of Mayor Salvo Pogliese.

The Malavoglia Fountain stands today as more than a monument; it is a symbol of Catania’s cultural richness and enduring spirit, connecting the city’s historical past with its vibrant present.