The olive tree was brought from the Holy Land of Jerusalem to represent peace and justice.
The street name Via Mariano D'Amelio was the site of the first 'car bomb' attack against a high-ranking judiciary figure in Sicily.
Many of the notes and messages left at the tree are archived by the Centro Studi to preserve the collective memory of the event.
The tree is surrounded by a metal fence to protect it, which is often covered in colorful ribbons and mementos left by visitors.
The Albero in Memoria di Paolo Borsellino is an olive tree located at the site of the 1992 Via D'Amelio bombing in Palermo. It serves as the primary focal point for commemorations of Judge Paolo Borsellino and his five bodyguards who were killed in the mafia attack. The olive tree, donated by the mother of a police officer who died in the attack, symbolizes resilience and the fight against organized crime. Visitors frequently leave handwritten letters, photographs, and personal notes tied to the tree's branches. The site is maintained by the Centro Studi Paolo e Rita Borsellino. It remains an active symbol of the Italian anti-mafia movement.
From the sidewalk directly facing the tree to capture the messages left on the fence.
Bring a pen and paper if you wish to leave a personal tribute, as many visitors choose to contribute their own messages.
Visit quietly; this is a place of profound local importance and active mourning for many residents.
Check the official website for dates of public ceremonies, as crowds increase significantly on the anniversary of the attack.
Do not treat the tree as a standard tourist photo opportunity; remember its context as a memorial site.
Maintain a respectful and subdued demeanor; avoid loud conversations or disruptive behavior.