At first glance, the Duomo stands out for its spectacular presence and for the imposing façade. Like many Sicilian religious buildings, even the Cathedral has undergone many interventions over the centuries that have changed its structure and initial style. Its construction dates back to the late twelfth century when the Normans reigned in Palermo. The Nordic-inspired architecture merged with Middle Eastern and Byzantine stylistic elements and canons reflects the peaceful coexistence of the monotheistic religions that reigned in the city both under the Norman domination and under the subsequent presence of the Swabians. The following centuries are characterized by continuous interventions and modifications: in the fourteenth century the four bell towers were raised, followed by the construction of the southern and northern porticoes; Islamic and gothic elements are present in the portals while the northern portico is later, dating back to the sixteenth century.
To all this must be added alterations of the Sicilian Baroque, the remodulation of the bell complex at the beginning of the eighteenth century, until the overpowering restoration operated by Ferdinando Fuga in the second half of the eighteenth century that adds to the building a substantially neoclassical imprint. The interior of the Duomo is majestic. In particular, the royal tombs and the Chapel of Santa Rosalia stand out. The inhabitants of Palermo are deeply linked to the city's patron saint and the silver urn containing its relics is kept and venerated in the Cathedral.
There are many royal tombs located in the first and second spans of the right aisle: Henry VI of Swabia, Constance of Altavilla, Constance of Aragon, Roger II of Sicily, Roger III of Sicily, Frederick II of Swabia, William of Aragon . Finally, not to be missed is the Sala del Tesoro (Hall of the Treasury): accessible from the anti-sacristy, preserves precious sacred furnishings, chalices, monstrances and miniatures from 1300 to 1700, as well as the beautiful golden tiara of Constance of Aragon, first wife of Frederick II of Swabia. without a doubt the most precious treasure item. The Cathedral is located in Corso Vittorio Emanuele. Easily reachable on foot from our hotel, it is served by numerous buses that connect the Corso to the port and the train station.
