My Photos: Italy -- Sicily -- Palermo -- Monreale

The incredible Cathedral of Monreale was built atop the hill town, Monreale,  which overlooks Palermo, Sicily. The Cathedral was built on orders from the last Norman King of Sicily, William II, who lived from 1153 to 1189, and ascended to the throne at age 11.   Work began on the Cathedral in 1172, and was finally completed in 1267.   The cathedral was dedicated to the Virgin Mary.   It is known as the Cattedrale della Santa Vergine Maria Assunta.  The exterior of the cathedral reflects the diversity of culture in Sicily at the time, with Greek, Roman, Arab, and Norman stylistic details.  The interior of the cathedral boasts the largest cycle of Byzantine mosaics in Italy.  And, the attached Cloister is decorated with Classical images, Old and New Testament stories, Pagan images,  scenes of everyday life such as hunting and grape harvesting, and all of it is surrounded in Arab-inspired mosaic inlays. The 42 panels on the bronze main entry doors depict biblical stories. The Cathedral Interior The Cathedral Mosaics The Cloister Monreale scenes All photos are copyright protected property of  Brenda Pokorny unless otherwise noted. If you would like permission for use, please contact me.