Palazzo dei Normanni, Palermo

Name: Palazzo dei Normanni
Address: 1 Piazza del Parlamento, Palermo, Italy
Telephone: +39 091 626 2833

#2 among attractions in Palermo

Unesco, Romanesque architecture, Vernacular architecture, Palace, More...

Gallery (15)

Map

Gallery

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Facts and practical information

The Palazzo dei Normanni, or the Norman Palace, is a testament to the rich historical tapestry of Palermo, the capital city of the Italian island of Sicily. Originally built in the 9th century as an Arab fortress, it was expanded and transformed by the Normans who conquered Sicily in the 11th century. This majestic palace stands as one of the most magnificent examples of Norman architecture in Italy and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of the Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalù and Monreale.

The palace's most renowned feature is the Palatine Chapel, an architectural jewel completed in 1140 under the rule of King Roger II. This chapel is adorned with breathtaking Byzantine mosaics, which depict both Christian and Islamic artistry, symbolizing the multicultural heritage of Sicily. The glittering gold backgrounds and intricate designs create a spiritual atmosphere that continues to awe visitors.

Aside from the chapel, the palace houses the Sicilian Regional Assembly and is a hub of political activity. It also features the stunning Hall of Roger, with its mesmerizing muqarnas ceiling, a masterpiece of Arab craftsmanship. The palace's grandeur extends to its courtyards and gardens, which provide a serene escape from the bustling city.

Open to the public, the Palazzo dei Normanni offers guided tours that allow visitors to explore its rich history and architectural beauty. The palace's blend of Arab, Norman, and Byzantine influences makes it a unique cultural site, reflecting the diverse civilizations that have left their mark on Palermo.

Alternative names: Coordinates: 38°6'40"N, 13°21'12"E

Address

1 Piazza del ParlamentoCentro Storico (Palazzo Reale-Monte di Pietà)Palermo Italy

Contact

+39 091 626 2833

Website

Social media

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Palermo

Day trips

Palazzo dei Normanni – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Palermo Cathedral, Palazzo Alliata di Villafranca, Cappella Palatina, San Giovanni degli Eremiti.

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Observatories and planetariums, History museum, Science museum
Palermo Astronomical Observatory, Palermo
1 min walk • The Giuseppe S. Vaiana Astronomical Observatory is an astronomical observatory located in Palermo, Sicily, Italy, housed inside the Palazzo dei Normanni. It is one of the research facilities of the National Institute of Astrophysics.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When is Palazzo dei Normanni open?

Palazzo dei Normanni is open:

Monday 8:15 am - 5:45 pm
Tuesday 8:15 am - 5:45 pm
Wednesday 8:15 am - 5:45 pm
Thursday 8:15 am - 5:45 pm
Friday 8:15 am - 5:45 pm
Saturday 8:15 am - 5:45 pm
Sunday 8:15 am - 1 pm

Which popular attractions are close to Palazzo dei Normanni?

Nearby attractions include Cappella Palatina, Palermo (1 min walk), Palermo Astronomical Observatory, Palermo (1 min walk), Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalù and Monreale, Palermo (1 min walk), Teatro Marmoreo, Palermo (2 min walk).

How to get to Palazzo dei Normanni by public transport?

The nearest stations to Palazzo dei Normanni:

Bus

Indipendenza - Palazzo Reale • Lines: 110, 118, 304, 309, 327, 389, Ncs, Nfe (2 min walk)
Vittorio Emanuale - Porta Nuova • Lines: Ncs (3 min walk)

Train

Palermo Palazzo Reale-Orleans (4 min walk)
Palermo Vespri (19 min walk)

Tram

Stazione Centrale • Lines: L1 (21 min walk)
Ingrassia • Lines: L1 (25 min walk)

Ferry

Palermo (34 min walk)