Overview
Experience the clash of East and West as evidenced by Palermo's striking monuments.
As the capital for both the Arabs and the Normans, Palermo's monuments reflect the magnificence of two worlds: East and West, that come together in clashing contrast.
Begin with a visit to the 12th century Palatine Chapel, built by the Normans but decorated with Byzantine- and Islamic-style mosaics. The royal chapel of the Norman kings of Sicily, it is situated on the ground floor at the center of the Palazzo Reale. It took eight years to build, and many more to decorate. Next, continue on to the Church of St. John of the Hermits, which is built to look like a red-domed Mosque.
Your next stop is the nearby Cathedral, a former mosque that was turned into a church in 1135. It was built by the Normans, but every new ruling dynasty that arrived added their own style to it.
Finally, drive to the small city of Monreale, located nearby (about 12 miles south of Palermo) on the slope of Monte Caputo. Here you will be treated to a visit of the Norman Duomo (Cathedral), which is decorated on the inside with nearly 70,000 square feet of mosaics and 24-carat gold!
This is a full day with a great driver and licensed guide.
The price of this tour does not include entrance fees, which are usually around 6€ per person.
Days offered: 7 days a week
Departures:- 09:00 AM, duration: 7 hours Departure time is flexible. Please contact ShoreTrips for a different departure time before booking
