Cattedrale di Monreale

The Duomo di Monreale is one of the most extraordinary cathedrals I have ever visited — a true masterpiece of Norman architecture in Sicily. Located on a hill overlooking Palermo, the cathedral impresses from the moment you arrive with its majestic exterior and breathtaking panoramic views of the valley below. The interior is simply unforgettable. Every inch of the walls and ceilings is covered in magnificent golden mosaics, telling biblical stories with incredible artistry and precision. The image of Christ Pantocrator in the apse radiates a spiritual power that leaves a lasting impression. The combination of Norman, Byzantine, and Arab influences creates a unique and harmonious atmosphere that reflects Sicily’s rich cultural history. Don’t miss the cloister, a peaceful courtyard surrounded by elegant arches and beautifully carved columns — each one different, a true work of art. It’s a perfect place to take a quiet moment and admire the craftsmanship. Visiting Duomo di Monreale feels like stepping into another time. It’s not just a church; it’s a treasure of world heritage and one of the most remarkable places in Italy.

One of the Most Beautiful Churches I’ve Ever Visited Absolutely stunning! Be sure to get the full ticket – the view from the rooftop is breathtaking. It’s best to visit right when it opens, as it can get quite crowded later with large tour groups arriving by bus.

Magnificent church with stunning views! Definitely worth the visit compared to the Palermo Palace!! Only a short bus ride 15 min. from the Palace. Tickets for the bus were cheap - €2.80 for 2 round trip. Had really old church records that were cool. The ticket line was a bit long due to tour groups, but moved quickly.

Absolutely a must to visit ,truly beautiful and a joy to walk around even if your not religious. Light airy resembles the ceilings of the Sistine chapel . Uplifting experience and real bird of paradise plants in the square.

Stunningly beautiful Norman cathedral in Monreale, the birthplace of my wife’s grandmother and locale where her grandparents lived before emigrating to Rochester, NY in 1902. Wish we could have spent more time in Monreale, but we enjoyed seeing this wonderful cathedral. Definitely do the tower walk, worth the money.

Extraordinary artwork especially either the gold mozaic, one of a kind, marvelous, and beautifully crafted. Deserves 5 stars rating, with very reasonable 10 euros entry tit to see all three area the church, the Bell Tower, and the museum. This one is a MUST VISIT place when having holiday in Palermo area, Sicily island.

Absolutely stunning! We took the hop on hop off bus there as finding another way was challenging and we weren’t sorry. Monreale is the most beautiful town up high over Palermo. View is breathtaking. The Cathedral is as well. Ancient. I’m in awe of what they created with no modern equipment. The mosaics are incredible. It wasn’t very busy as it’s out of the way from the city and it was high season. Afterwords, we stopped and got a spritz before heading to the bus. I highly recommend a visit there.

Do not get the audio guide. It's so dull boring and dull! Waste of money. Watch a youtube video instead and it will do a much better job explaining this place. It's a majeatic place but it's a lot more interesting if you understand what you are looking at and how it came to be.