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.
Tag: arab norman
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.
The Outstanding Leadership Of Sicily’s Roger II
More than ever, I’m seeking a dinner date with Roger II (1095-1154) … An outstanding leader, Roger II incorporated and encouraged inclusion of all of the various cultures, religions, and races that shared Sicily–native Sicilian, Norman, Arab, Byzantine, Greek, Jewish, English, German, and more–into his government. As a result, Sicily thrived, and it became the…
A Bell Tower In Cefalù, Sicily
One of the bell towers of the 12th century, Arab-Norman style Cathedral of Cefalù, Sicily from the duomo’s other bell tower
Peacocks From Roger II’s Hall In The Norman Palace
The original mosaic artwork from Sicilian King Roger II’s Hall in the Palazzo dei Normanni (12th century) in Palermo and the print copying it, created by Gioaria di Marilena Trovato. I can’t wait to hang this art in my home with the others in the set I purchased in the Norman Palace.
A Diamond In The Mishmash of Palermo’s Cathedral
When you visit Palermo’s Cathedral, be sure to go around to the north side of it, pictured. To me, the back side posesses the most beautiful architectural elements of the mishmash of styles that make up this temple dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin. The inlaid lava stone designs (AKA intarsias) are from the…
Awe-inspiring Mosaic Designs in Sicily
Every inch of the Cappella Palatina is embellished with intricate mosaics of inlaid marble, colorful stones, and golden glass tiles. This detail illustrates the multi-cultural mix (Norman, Arab, Greek, and Byzantine) that existed during Roger II’s 12th-century rule, when the Palazzo dei Normanni’s chapel was built.
Look Again! This Is In Campania
At first glance, this photo could have been taken in Palermo, but in fact, it is the floor of the Duomo di Casertavecchia in Campania! The Arab-Normann designs of the 12th century cathedral are most definitely related to those in Cefalù, Monreale, and Palermo, but they are located north of Naples, one of the capitals…
Monreale Offers A Moment Of Peace
Whenever I visit the cloisters (chiostro) of Monreale Cathedral, I enjoy taking a moment at the fountain that anchors one of the corners of the garden. Its elegance and ancient beauty transport me to another era, somewhere far away. Somewhere peaceful. The cloisters were built by Sicilian and Venetian artisans in the early 13th century…
A Curated Experience
Yesterday in Palermo, our guide Jacqueline explained in depth the politics of Norman king Roger II (pictured here, being crowned by Jesus in the Martorana Church), and then applied the discourse to what is happening in Italy today. The inspired discussion at dinner last night proved why I can’t emphasize enough the importance of working…