Netflix’s The Leopard, set to premiere on March 5, 2025, takes viewers on a breathtaking journey through 19th-century Sicily, immersing them in a world of aristocratic grandeur and sweeping social change. Based on Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa’s classic novel, the series artfully blends history, drama, and timeless beauty — and its filming locations play a crucial role in bringing this world to life.
If you’re a fan of historical dramas and dream of wandering through sun-soaked Italian landscapes, let’s explore the key filming sites that shaped The Leopard.
Palermo, Sicily
The heart of The Leopard’s story lies in Sicily, and Palermo — the island’s capital — serves as a vital backdrop. Known for its rich history and striking architecture, Palermo’s baroque palaces, ancient churches, and bustling piazzas mirror the opulence and decay central to the series’ theme.
When visiting Palermo, don’t miss:
- Palazzo dei Normanni: A royal palace showcasing a blend of Norman, Arab, and Byzantine influences.
- Teatro Massimo: Italy’s largest opera house, perfect for those seeking a taste of 19th-century glamour.
- Quattro Canti: A grand intersection flanked by Baroque facades, ideal for an afternoon of history and photography.
Palermo’s layered past, where grandeur meets grit, makes it the perfect stand-in for the Prince of Salina’s fading aristocratic world.
Catania, Sicily
Located at the foot of Mount Etna, Catania adds a dramatic flair to The Leopard. The city’s baroque buildings — constructed from volcanic rock — offer a striking contrast between dark stone and ornate design.
Highlights for visitors include:
- Piazza del Duomo: The city’s central square, home to the iconic Elephant Fountain and Catania Cathedral.
- Via Etnea: A lively street lined with historic buildings, bustling markets, and views of the smoking volcano.
- Castello Ursino: A medieval castle used as a filming site, embodying the series’ tension between tradition and transformation.
Catania’s raw beauty reflects the novel’s themes of resistance and reinvention.
Syracuse, Sicily
Syracuse — with its ancient ruins and coastal charm — adds a romantic yet melancholic feel to the series. This UNESCO World Heritage city, once a powerful Greek colony, captures the timeless allure of Sicily.
Must-see spots include:
- Ortigia Island: The historical center of Syracuse, with winding alleyways, sun-dappled squares, and a seaside promenade.
- Greek Theatre of Syracuse: An ancient amphitheater used as a dramatic backdrop for key scenes.
- Piazza del Duomo: A baroque square surrounded by elegant palaces and the stunning Cathedral of Syracuse.
Syracuse’s blend of ancient ruins and serene coastal views complements The Leopard’s exploration of old versus new.
Rome, Lazio
While the story unfolds primarily in Sicily, parts of The Leopard were filmed in Rome, adding a layer of grandeur and historical weight. Rome’s timeless beauty serves as the perfect counterpoint to Sicily’s rugged elegance.
Top locations in Rome include:
- Palazzo Doria Pamphilj: A lavish palace filled with priceless art and gilded halls, ideal for capturing aristocratic sophistication.
- Piazza Venezia: A bustling square at the heart of Rome, symbolizing the broader political and social changes depicted in the series.
- Cinecittà Studios: Some interior scenes were filmed here, using carefully constructed sets to recreate 19th-century grandeur.
Rome’s inclusion in the series adds a sense of scale and imperial majesty to The Leopard’s narrative.
When Was The Leopard Filmed?
Principal photography for The Leopard began in 2023, with the production team carefully selecting authentic, historically rich locations across Sicily and Rome. The blend of real-world settings and cinematic artistry brings the novel’s world to vivid life.
Plan Your The Leopard Tour
For fans of historical fiction and travel enthusiasts alike, these filming locations offer a perfect blend of cultural exploration and cinematic magic. Whether you’re strolling through Palermo’s baroque streets, marveling at Catania’s volcanic charm, or wandering the ancient ruins of Syracuse, you’ll feel transported into The Leopard’s world.
With the series set to debut on Netflix in March 2025, now is the perfect time to plan your Italian adventure. So pack your bags, grab your copy of Lampedusa’s novel, and prepare to step into the timeless elegance of The Leopard’s Italy.