Palazzo dei Normanni & Cappella Palatina
Palazzo dei Normanni
One of Europe's oldest royal palaces. Inside, the Palatine Chapel is filled with gold Byzantine mosaics and an Arab wooden stalactite ceiling.
The Norman Palace was built on the site of an Arab-era castle. In the 12th century it became the palace of the Norman kings, and today it houses the Sicilian Regional Assembly. The most spectacular part, the Palatine Chapel, was begun in 1132 by Roger II. Its walls are covered in gold mosaics, and its wooden ceiling features rare Arab stalactite carvings and painted decoration. Tickets cost about €10 to €20, with different prices on weekdays and weekends. The palace is generally open from morning to afternoon. You must queue for a security check, so arrive early. Dress appropriately.
Opening hours
About 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. (last admission; check official website)
Nearby sights
- San Giovanni degli Eremiti
- Palermo Historic Centre
- Mercato del Capo
- Ballarò Market
- Chiesa del Gesù (Casa Professa)
- Quattro Canti
- Fontana Pretoria
- Teatro Massimo