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Cathedral

The imposing cathedral, known officially as Santa Maria Assunta, is characterised by its blend of styles, accumulated through numerous alterations and additions over its 800-year history. It was originally built in 1185 by the Normans on the site of a mosque, with the most recent changes occurring in the 18th century. The main entrance is an impressive Gothic portal with two towers. The chapel, close to the entrance, is famous for its royal tombs and the cathedral also contains an interesting display of fine treasures.

Royal Palace and Palatine Chapel

The Royal Palace is one of the most beautiful and popular in Italy, with the famous Palatine Chapel situated on the ground floor. Roger II of Sicily commissioned construction of the palace in the 12th century and much of the kingdoms splendour is still evident. Today, the palace houses the Sicilian Regional Assembly. The Palatine Chapel is a must-see, with a magnificent blend of Byzantine, Norman and Arabic architectural styles. The chapel is perhaps most famous for the extraordinary mosaics that line its walls.

Four Corners (Quattro Canti)

The Quattro Canti, situated at the crossing of corso Vittorio Emanuele and via Maqueda, is right at the heart of Palermo, and many of Palermos sights are within walking distance of it. The four buildings that comprise the Quattro Canti and split the city into four quarters are all built on three levels, with impressive Baroque sculptures illustrating different themes - the four seasons, four patron saints of the town and four Spanish kings. The official name is Piazza Vigilena, named after the Spanish viceroy who commissioned the building of the sculptures. The buildings position means that from this spot, the sun can always be seen, from dawn to dusk. The Baroque fountains at street level make this a very pleasant setting.

Saint Francis of Assisi

The St Francis of Assisi (Basilica of San Francesco d' Assisi) is a magnificent medieval church situated in what was once the market area of the city. The church was originally constructed in the 13th century, but has been extensively renovated over the centuries. As a result of WWII bombings, the church was returned to its medieval style, but part of the original building remains. The church is typically Italian Gothic style and is notable for its stunning arches and cloister.

San Cataldo

Built immediately next to the Martorana the church of San Cataldo, with its bright red dome rising above the decorative surmounting cornice, is similar in many ways to its neighbor. It, too, was a gift from one of the top state officials of the Norman period. When William I succeeded his father in 1154 he appointed Maio of Bari to succeed George of Antioquia as Grand Admiral. As he came from Italy and not Greece, like his predecessor, Maio dedicated his church to a saint from his homeland, Bishop Cataldo of Trani, and chose the "Latin" ground plan, a triple-aisled basilica. Its longitudinal direction is emphasized by three Arabic domes above the elevated central nave. Its Arabo-Norman character is also demonstrated by the cubic exterior with three ogee windows on each side surrounded by blind arcades, and the fine ledge running around the upper edge.

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July - August -> 30(°C) - Summer
January - February -> 6(°C) - Winter

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