Palermo Cathedral
Sicilia
Palermo Cathedral, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, stands as a remarkable architectural complex in Palermo, Sicily. Founded in 1185 by the Norman archbishop Walter Ophamil on the site of a former Byzantine basilica and later mosque, the cathedral showcases a fusion of styles including Norman, Gothic, Renaissance, and Neoclassical due to centuries of additions and restorations. Its western facade features Gothic portals and 15th-century Madonna statues, while the southern porch exemplifies Gothic-Catalan style. The interior follows a Latin cross plan with a nave and two aisles, housing royal tombs such as those of Emperor Henry VI and Frederick II, and precious artworks including a 13th-century polychrome Crucifix and a marble Madonna with Child by Francesco Laurana. The chapel of Saint Rosalia, Palermo's patron saint, contains her revered silver urn. The cathedral also preserves relics of several saints and features a wooden choir from 1466. Its rich history and artistic treasures make it an essential cultural and religious monument in Sicily.
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Tip: Visit Palermo Cathedral during the morning on weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during major religious events like the Festino di Santa Rosalia in July. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Check the official website for current opening hours and any weather-related closures.
Interesting facts
- •The cathedral stands on a site originally occupied by a Byzantine basilica, later converted into a mosque during Arab rule.
- •It houses the tombs of Emperor Henry VI, his son Frederick II, and King Roger II, the first King of Sicily.
- •The silver urn containing the relics of Saint Rosalia is a masterpiece of Sicilian Baroque silverwork, carried in procession annually on July 15.
- •The cathedral blends multiple architectural styles, including Norman, Gothic, Renaissance, and Neoclassical, reflecting its long history of modifications.
- •A Qur'an verse is carved on one of the columns in the southern portico, a remnant from the mosque period.
History
The cathedral was erected in 1185 by Walter Ophamil, replacing an earlier Byzantine basilica that had been converted into a mosque during the Arab conquest.
Over the centuries, it underwent significant architectural changes, including the addition of Gothic towers in the 14th and 15th centuries and a southern porch in the Renaissance period.
In the late 18th century, a major Neoclassical renovation led by Ferdinando Fuga and Giuseppe Venanzio Marvuglia transformed its appearance, including the addition of domes and the removal of earlier sculptures.
The cathedral also served as the coronation site for Bourbon kings, underscoring its historical importance.
Place Guide
Western Entrance and Towers14th-15th centuries
The western entrance features Gothic portals flanked by two towers with a 15th-century Madonna statue. Two ogival arcades connect this facade to the bell tower adjacent to the Archbishop's Palace, now the Museo Diocesano.
Southern Porch (Gothic-Catalan Style)15th century
Built around 1465, the southern porch serves as the main entrance. It features three arcades and a carved portal by Antonio Gambara (1426-1430) and wooden doors by Francesco Miranda (1432). The first column is from the original basilica and mosque, bearing a Qur'an verse.
Interior and Royal Tombs12th-18th centuries
The interior has a Latin cross plan with a nave and two aisles. It contains tombs of emperors and Sicilian royalty, including Emperor Henry VI, Frederick II, Peter II of Sicily, and King Roger II with his daughter Constance. The Sacrament chapel is richly decorated with precious stones and lapis lazuli.
Chapel of Saint Rosalia17th century
Located in the right transept, this chapel houses the silver urn with relics of Saint Rosalia, Palermo's patron saint. The bronze gate and urn are notable examples of Sicilian Baroque art and are central to the annual Festino di Santa Rosalia procession.
Artworks and Sculptures13th-15th centuries
The cathedral contains significant artworks including a 1466 wooden choir in Gothic-Catalan style, a marble Madonna with Child by Francesco Laurana (1469), a 13th-century polychrome Crucifix by Manfredi Chiaramonte, and sculptures by Antonello Gagini.
Contact
Phone: 091 334373
