EJ · Monreale Tour - Group 3

This morning, after meeting your English-speaking guide and boarding your motor coach, you will travel towards Monreale. This pleasant town offers wonderful views over Palermo, the coast, and the fertile Conca d’Oro valley, with its groves of olive, orange, and almond trees. Its name derives from Monte Reale (Mountain of the Kings). Located just outside Palermo, Monreale has been a medieval town and bishop’s see since 1183. The town developed during the Norman domination of the island in the 11th century and became the place where the Norman rulers withdrew to rest after the exertions of war and governance of the Kingdom. From the parking lot, you will proceed on foot to visit the Norman-Byzantine Cathedral, the most evocative site of the town, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This architectural masterpiece of the Norman period blends Muslim, Byzantine, and Romanesque influences, creating one of the finest expressions of Sicilian style. Built in the 12th century, the Cathedral is flanked by two enormous square towers. The vast interior is divided by columns supporting pointed arches of Moorish inspiration, and its walls, floors, and apses are adorned with Byzantine mosaics on a gold background. To the right of the façade lies the entrance to the cloister of the ancient Benedictine monastery: a square courtyard framed by arcades, with arches surrounding a lush garden. These are supported by 228 paired columns, richly decorated with diverse ornamentation, including mosaic inlays and capitals carved with plant, animal, and fantastic motifs. Of particular interest is the 19th capital on the western side, depicting William II offering the Cathedral to the Madonna.

After the visit, you will enjoy some free time in Monreale before returning to your hotel.