Evening Visit to Cattedrale di Monreale

For a relaxing end to the afternoon, we made our way up the winding roads of Monte Caputo to a small commune called Monreale. Still technically part of Palermo’s city limits, this town has a history completely it’s own—as one of the main highlights, the beautiful cathedral was constructed in the 1170’s and showcases some of the most gorgeous Norman architecture in the world! And as legend has it, this cathedral was built due to a dream that King William II had during a hunting vacation in the area. A vision of the Virgin Mary allegedly directed him to construct a church under the very carob tree that he napped! Whether this is true remains to be known, but the tale continues to be passed down through generations.

Chiostro dei Benedettini

The Benedictine Cloister is located just outside the cathedral and contains 228 beautifully designed columns. Each one was uniquely constructed with biblical scenes, foliage, and other decor made of gold and marble all the way back in 1200. Compare that to America’s short two hundred+ year old history and be impressed!

P.S. If you haven’t already read Parts I through III of my Sicily Travel Series, I highly recommend you check them out!

• Part I: Sicilia Itinerary
• Part II: Riserva Naturale di Capo Gallo
• Part III: Fontana Pretoria & Palermo City Center

P.P.S. Happy FIVE year anniversary to my wonderful husband, Nelson! Ti amo per sempre <3

Photos by Anna Vlasiuk Photography