Cathedral rebuilt over centuries with Arab-Norman, Gothic and neoclassical elements. UNESCO-listed.
Palermo Cathedral (Cattedrale di Palermo, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary) rises on Corso Vittorio Emanuele in the historic centre of Palermo, Sicily. Its site has held a succession of religious buildings: an early Christian basilica, a mosque during the Arab period, and a church restored to Christian use after the Norman conquest. The present building was begun in 1185 under Walter of the Mill, archbishop of Palermo, and completed over the following centuries, which explains its famously mixed appearance. The south front and the apses preserve the Norman and Arab-influenced decoration of interlaced arches and geometric inlay, the porch and the Gothic-Catalan elements date from the 14th and 15th centuries, and the large dome and interior were reworked in neoclassical style by Ferdinando Fuga from 1781 to 1801. Inside, the cathedral is best known for the royal tombs in the north-west chapel, which hold the porphyry sarcophagi of Roger II, his daughter Constance, Emperor Henry VI and Emperor Frederick II, along with other members of the Norman and Hohenstaufen dynasties. The treasury displays the crown of Constance of Aragon, found in her tomb, and liturgical objects. The shrine of Saint Rosalia, patron saint of Palermo, is also housed here. Visitors can climb to the roof terraces for views across the rooftops towards the mountains and the sea. The cathedral forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage site Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalù and Monreale, inscribed in 2015. Restoration has been continuous across the centuries, and recent campaigns have addressed the stonework and roof. The nave is a place of active worship, and visitors are expected to dress modestly and to keep quiet during services. Different areas, including the tombs, treasury and roof, are ticketed and open at separate hours.
| Admission | Nave free; tombs and treasury about EUR 3 (~$3.45) |
|---|---|
| Hours | Nave generally open daily; royal tombs and roof on separate hours; confirm at cattedrale.palermo.it |
| Address | Corso Vittorio Emanuele, 90134 Palermo |
Why it matters
Site of a Roman basilica, a church and a mosque before the Norman cathedral begun in 1185; it holds the royal tombs of Roger II, Henry VI, Constance and Frederick II.
Location
Corso Vittorio Emanuele, 90134 Palermo
38.1144, 13.3563 View on map
Highlights
- Royal tombs of Roger II, Constance, Henry VI and Frederick II
- South porch and facade mixing Norman, Gothic-Catalan and neoclassical styles
- Treasury with the crown of Constance of Aragon
- Rooftop walk with views over Palermo's old town
Tips for visiting
- Wear covered shoulders and knees; entry can be refused for revealing clothing.
- Buy the combined ticket for the tombs, treasury and roof if time allows.
- Visit the roof in the morning light for the clearest views.
- Check service times, as tourist access to the nave is limited during Mass.
- Pair the visit with the Museo Diocesano, which sits close by.
Accessibility
The nave is generally accessible at ground level, but the roof terraces are reached by stairs and the tombs may involve steps. Visitors with mobility needs should enquire at the ticket desk.
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Frequently asked questions
Is entry to Palermo Cathedral free?
Entry to the nave is generally free, while the royal tombs, treasury and roof require a separate ticket. Current prices are listed on the cathedral's official website.
How long does a full visit take?
About 45 minutes covers the nave and tombs, and adding the treasury and roof extends it to roughly 1.5 hours.
Is the cathedral suitable for children?
Yes, although it is an active place of worship and quiet behaviour is expected. The roof climb involves stairs and may be tiring for small children.