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Type: Architecture, Culture, Heritage, History
Length: 4 Hours
Walking: Medium
Mobility: Folding wheelchair OK, some sites may be inaccessible (advance notice required)
Guide: Licensed Guide
Language: English
Palermo Shore Excursion - This private shore tour is an excellent option for those who only have a half day available in Palermo. You visit the impressive Norman Cathedral of Monreale and then enjoy a tour to see the highlights of Palermo.
After meeting your licensed guide you immediately depart for Monreale which sits on a hill over looking the sea. In Monreale's beautiful old town you find the world famous Norman Cathedral, which is a major attraction in Sicily. Construction of this magnificent masterpiece of Norman art kicked off under William II in 1174 and was finished a few years later. It is said that the Norman building was commissioned to undermined the power of the Archdiocese of Palermo.
On the outside, you can admire the beautiful doors, the elegant 16th century portico by Gagini and the richly decorated apse, covered in intertwined arches and polychrome lava and limestone inlays. On the inside, you will see its amazing set of mosaics on a golden background. The mosaics, climaxing in the large Christ Pantokrator image, were created between the 12th and 13th century and represent stories from the Old and New Testament. It is the largest complete cycle of the Byzantine tradition. The 11th century Benedictine cloister is also amazing. Inside you will marvel at the oriental fountain, surrounded by a four-sided colonnade.
After visiting Monreale you drive to Palermo where you enjoy a walking tour of the old town. Palermo reflects the diverse history of the region in that the city contains many masterpieces from different periods, including Romanesque, Gothic, renaissance and baroque architecture as well as examples of modern art. Perfect examples are the Norman Palace which is home to the Sicilian parliament and the Palatine Chapel from 1132, which is covered with glittering mosaics.
The city also hosts a rich vegetation of palm trees, prickly pears, bananas, lemon trees and so on. The abundance of exotic species was also noticed by the world famous German writer Goethe who in April 1787 visited the newly opened botanical gardens, describing them as "the most beautiful place on earth". A favorite for many visitors is the Vucciria, which is a maze of small streets where vendors sell fresh fruits, vegetables and seafood.
At the end of your excursion you will return to the port.
If you cannot find what you are looking for, our Sicily -Palermo tours and Sicily -Palermo Shore Excursions can also be customized to fit your needs. If you have a larger group, we can offer you a private Sicily -Palermo tour using a mid-size bus or full size coach. Please contact us with any questions or to receive a customized quote.
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Shore Trip Timing is approximate based on your interests & traffic
- Drive to Monreale- 30 Minutes
- Visit Monreale Cathedral - 1.5 Hours
- Drive to Palermo - 30 Minutes
- Palermo tour - 1.5 Hours
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