Palermo Arab-Norman Walking Tour in English

The impact of a Nordic culture on Sicily in the 11th-12th century led to a new architectural style: Palermo’s Arab-Norman architecture introduced innovative elements from the north of Europe, such as an accentuated verticality and the use of towers at the sides of façades, within Byzantine layouts, such as the Greek-cross plan inscribed in a square, and structural and/or decorative details of Islamic origin, such as pointed arches and geometric polychrome inlays.

The tour consists of a visit to the three main Arab-Norman monuments of the city.

We’ll start with the Palazzo dei Normanni (Norman Palace) and the Cappella Palatina, once the private chapel of King Roger II Hauteville and his court.

Then we will see the Cathedral, originally the largest mosque in Europe, and discover the architectural evolution that made it the best-known monument in Palermo.

Finally, we will visit the Church of Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio better known as La Martorana. The alterations made to this church throughout the centuries are a living testimony of the different civilizations that passed through Palermo.

Come and discover our Arab-Norman walking Tour with a local guide in English!

If you need further information about the tour you can contact us.

We will get you back in a few minutes