Cathedral of Palermo & Duomo di Monreale (Guided in Japanese)

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

As a result of its strategic location in the middle of the Mediterranean, Sicily and its regional capital Palermo have seen wave after wave of invaders over 25 centuries - among them Phoenicians, the Carthaginians, the Greeks, the Romans, the Saracen Arabs, the Normans, the Swabians, the French and the Spanish Bourbons. The result is a quilted history that is evident today wherever you look – from the vast range of architectural styles, to the intriguing fusion of ingredients used in local dishes to the names of places which are obviously not of Italian origin. Why not embark on a rare opportunity to explore this quilted and fascinating history during this half-day, active tour of Palermo and the nearby village of Monreale that has you visiting two of the greatest architectural treasures: the Cathedral of Palermo and the Duomo di Monreale!

But first, board your air-conditioned motorcoach at your pier and set out on a narrated (courtesy of a friendly guide) drive through your port city! Bustling, crowded streets and boundless energy greet you, along with an astounding array of medieval buildings, Byzantine palaces and post-war modernity. Your drive will take you through Quattro Canti "Four Corners" – the traditional heart of Palermo's old historic district and the site of many monuments, churches and Baroque fountains In 1611 the Spanish Viceroy had sculptures built on the façades of each of the four buildings there illustrating various themes, including the four seasons.

Visit Cathedral of Palermo, a massive rectangular structure with two towers at its two front corners. The cathedral's long history has resulted in an amalgam of architectural styles. Originally the site of a pagan temple, it was turned into a mosque when Arabs conquered the city of Palermo in 831. In 1072 the Normans turned it into a Christian church. The only sections that restorers have not touched are the apses which still retain their original Muslim geometric decoration. Just a few miles out of Palermo, you'll enjoy a visit to the Duomo di Monreale, by some accounts the finest Norman building in Sicily. Founded in 1174 by the Norman King William II, this structure reveals a stunning mix of Islamic and Norman architecture. The massive Romanesque bronze doors were designed by Pisano. But it is the splendor of the golden mosaics found inside that take the breath away. Dating from the 12th and 13th centuries, the Byzantine and Venetian mosaics (68,220 feet in total) completely cover the walls of the nave, aisles, transept and apse with scenes from the Old and New Testaments

During your scenic drive back to your Princess ship, contemplate the fascinating 2500 year history of this Mediterranean Island and your port city of Palermo.

Special Notes:

Sequence of tour stops may vary. Conservative dress covering shoulders and knees is required to enter the chapel and the Duomo. At Monreale, visitors must negotiate approximately 90 steps while walking from the car park to the town center.

This tour will not operate on Sundays calls arriving at 10:00am due to time admittance restrictions to the sites.

Due to city regulation, the area surrounding the Cathedral and the Four Corners is subject to traffic restrictions which may prevent the sight of some highlights in the old town.

Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience.

Medical Restriction:

Guests must be physically fit, the tour involves walking segments and steps to negotiate the sites