Monreale, which is a few kilometres from Palermo, is located on Mount Caputo. It stands in a privileged position that overlooks “Conca d'Oro”, which is the ancient perfumed valley of lemon trees. It is a very old little town dating back to the 12th century, when the Norman kings preferred to rest after their military efforts in a more peaceful place than the crowded Palermo.
On this private guided tour of Monreale we will visit the Duomo, that is one of the most sumptuous example of the so-called Arab-Norman style, whose itinerary has been nominated for recognition as an Unesco World Heritage Site. Built by the Norman king William II, the Church became an important Bishop’s site to balance the religious power of the nearby Palermo Cathedral. The magnificence of the golden mosaics, decorating the inside, will leave us absolutely astonished.
We will conclude the visit with a pleasant stroll into the elegant Benedictine monastery cloister of the 12th century, enriched by inlaid columns and sculptured capitals.
