Duomo, Monreale
 The nave of Monreale Cathedral; a 12th-13th century mosaic of Christ Pantocrator in the apse (photos © Paradoxplace.com). |
Magnificently adorned with golden mosaics, Monreale Cathedral is one of the greatest sights of Norman Sicily.
History
After the Norman conquest of Sicily, the new rulers showcased their ambitions through monumental building projects. William II (1154-89) built the church complex with a cloister and palace between 1174 and 1185 employing both Sicilian and Byzantine craftsmen.
The result was a glorious fusion of Eastern and Western influences, widely regarded as the finest example of Norman architecture in Sicily.
Like the Duomo of Cefalù, and later Palermo, Monreale's Duomo was to serve as a royal sepulcher.
What to See
The exterior of Monreale Cathedral is nice, but provides no hint of the magnificent splendor inside. With their rich multi-colored ornamentation in tufa and marble on the exterior, the three apses of the Duomo represent the height of Norman decoration.
The bronze door panel was created (and signed) by Bonanno da Pisa in 1185. It depicts 42 scenes from the Bible set within decorative borders, and is considered among the most important of medieval artifacts. Look also for the lion and the griffin, symbols of the Norman kingdom.
 William II presents his cathedral to the Virgin Mary (Paradoxplace.com). |
Inside, the cathedral's Latin-cross plan focuses on the imposing mosaic of Christ Pantrocrater (the all-powerful Christ), which dates from the 12th or 13th century.
The Duomo's main attraction is 68,220 square feet of glittering gold mosaics decorating the cathedral interior. Completed in 1182, the rich mosaic cycle adorning the walls shows scenes from the Old Testament (nave), Teachings of Christ (aisles, choire, and transepts), and the Gospels (side apses). Together, the mosaics of Monreale Cathedral contain around 2,200 km of pure gold.
The painted wooden ceiling dates from 1816 to 1837 - bring a small pair of binoculars if you want to read its Latin inscriptions.
The roof commands a great view (at a cost of 172 stairs).
The Duomo's Benedictine cloisters are a masterpiece of Norman artistic expression from the time of William II. The columns — variously plain, carved, or inlaid with richly lustered tiles — support elaborate capitals from which spring Saracen-style arches. The columns were designed by craftsmen from Campania, Puglia, Lombardy, and Sicily.
Quick Facts
| Address: | Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, Monreale, Sicily, Italy |
| Phone: | Church: 091 640 4413; Cloister: 091 640 4403 |
| Hours: | Apr-Sep: Daily 9am-6pm; Oct-Mar: Daily 9am-6:30pm |
| Cost: | Free except for Treasury |
Source: Eyewitness Travel Guide to Italy and Fodor's Italy 2005.
