Tag: arab norman
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Highlights of Monreale Cathedral in Sicily
Monreale Cathedral, built in the late 12th Century by William II in honor of the Virgin Mary, is a magnificent example of the UNESCO recognized Arab-Norman architectural style. The Norman king left us a wonder decorated with approximately 63,000 square feet of mosaic tiles.
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Kingdom of Sicily 1130 – 1266: A New Treatise To Know
Congratulations Louis Mendola and Jacqueline Alio on their latest treatise, Kingdom of Sicily 1130-1266! I am in awe of the detailed research that was completed to write this book that will be a consistent reference for me for years to come as I continue to transmit how the history of Sicily offers humanity endless lessons…
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52 Reasons to Love Sicily | #35. Amazing Architecture
What exactly is it? Built in 1905, Stand Florio was constructed for the industrious Florio family as a daytime seaside resort for their friends and associates – – members of Palermo’s nouveau riche elite. On its grounds they played soccer/football and water sports and socialized. The complex was designed by Palermo architect Ernesto Basile, who…
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52 Reasons to Love Sicily | #34. Rock A Kasbah
So, even while in Sicily, you can get lost within such a labyrinth and find hidden family-run restaurants and happen upon families communicating through open windows and curtain-ed doorways. There’s also some pretty neat street art and ceramic tiles adorning the seeming fortification. Consider visiting Mazara del Vallo as “an adventure within an adventure.” And…
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52 Reasons to Love Sicily | #25. East Meets West in Sicily
Sicily is a bridge where east meets west, especially in Palermo where north African and middle-eastern sensibilities blend with European ones, as illustrated by the Arab-Norman heritage of Palermo. The Arabs were in power in Sicily from roughly 827 to 1061, and many Sicilians will tell you they are proud of the cultural and technological…
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52 Reasons to Love Sicily | #3. Palermo Goes To 11
Then there are ancient sites next to psychodelic baroque (Chiesa di Santa Caterina and Casa Professa, to name just two mind-blowing experiences!) next to Arab-Norman style architecture, next to Liberty Style… Oh, and royal palaces! Check out these mosaic-tiled lions (pictured) in the chambers of Roger II from the 12th century. And don’t forget Castello…
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The Red Domes Of Palermo
Whenever I see the church of San Cataldo, I feel Palermo is welcoming me home. The red domes of this ancient church overlook Via Maqueda and Piazza Bellini. San Cataldo was built during the early-Norman era in the 1150s by Maio of Bari, William I’s top emir, or commander. Its cherry-on-top domes and elegant window…
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Symbols Are Everywhere In Sicily
Pomegranates and grapes are carved into the detail work of the Duomo of Cefalù. Both are coming into season now. Both represent fertility and abundance.
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The Lions Of Palermo’s Royal Palace
The mosaics from the chambers of Roger II (Sala di Re Rogero) in the Royal Palace in Palermo are a spectacular example of Arab Norman secular design. They date to the mid 12th century, the same period that the Cappella Palatina was constructed.