Salvo Montalbano is a fictional detective created by Italian author Andrea Camilleri. He is the protagonist of a popular series of crime novels set in the fictional town of Vigàta, located in Sicily. Montalbano is known for his keen observational skills, strong sense of justice, and love for good food, often reflecting the culture of the region. The series, which began with "The Shape of Water" in 1994, has gained international acclaim and has been adapted into a successful television series titled Il Commissario Montalbano. The character's adventures often explore themes of morality, social issues, and the complexities of human nature.