We have previously noted the influence that the Normans and Arab rulers had on Sicily during periods of rule in the Middle Ages, with the Islamic Conquest of 827-1091AD and the Norman era of 1071-1194AD, and how the two cultures remain visible in many places throughout the island. This leftover of the Middle Ages is particularly evident in the city of Palermo, which is a melting pot of Italian, Norman and Middle Eastern cultures and influences, and especially in her architecture. Norman buildings are dotted throughout the island of Sicily – Castelvetrano’s 12 century church of SS. Trinità di Delia, Cefalù’s Cathedral, Monreale’s Cathedral and cloister, and the church of SS. Pietro e Paolo a few kilometres outside of Forza d'Agrò, to name a few – but there are multiple buildings Arab-Norman buildings in Palermo including the Sala di Ruggero in the Royal Palace and the churches of Santo Spirito and San Giovanni degli Eremiti. One of the places and buildings that is most famous, beautiful, and clearly influenced by the wonderful marriage of these two cultures, however, is the stunning Cappella Palatina. The open exchange of Western and Middle Eastern cultures is at its peak here and it is a must-see if you have found a vacation rental in Palermo.
Located on the second floor of the Palazzo dei Normanni (Palace of the Normans), the Cappella Palatina is part of the architectural complex of the Norman Palace and was built as the royal chapel of the Norman kings of Sicily in 1140 for Ruggero II of Sicily. Bringing together the best artisans, materials, techniques, and motifs from all across the extended Norman world, it is an incredible jewellery box of a building. On the plan of a traditional Roman basilica, the chapel has three naves and carries a vaulted wooden roof on rows of granite columns with Cipolin Corinthian capitals bearing Islamic ogive arches. Said roof is covered in elaborate muqarnas, incredible traditional Islamic geometric designs. The walls of the church, however, are the true star of the show, covered in breath-taking Byzantine mosaics that are picked out in gold and vibrant colours.
Located on the second floor of the Palazzo dei Normanni (Palace of the Normans), the Cappella Palatina is part of the architectural complex of the Norman Palace and was built as the royal chapel of the Norman kings of Sicily in 1140 for Ruggero II of Sicily. Bringing together the best artisans, materials, techniques, and motifs from all across the extended Norman world, it is an incredible jewellery box of a building. On the plan of a traditional Roman basilica, the chapel has three naves and carries a vaulted wooden roof on rows of granite columns with Cipolin Corinthian capitals bearing Islamic ogive arches. Said roof is covered in elaborate muqarnas, incredible traditional Islamic geometric designs. The walls of the church, however, are the true star of the show, covered in breath-taking Byzantine mosaics that are picked out in gold and vibrant colours.
Probably made by the same craftsmen that made the mosaics in the Martorana and the central apse of the Cathedral in Cefalù, we are uncertain as to when exactly they were actually made but it is thought that the mosaics in the nave and aisles specifically were most likely made during the rule of William I (1154-1166), who was the second King of Sicily and the fourth son of Roger II and Elvira of Castile. The Madonna below the figure of the Christ Pantocrator is an 18th century addition, which replaced a window that was there. In fact, there were originally 50 windows that were intended to allow light in to illuminate the stories contained in the mosaics on the walls throughout the day but all of these windows have since been blocked. Instead, it is lit with lights and candles today and shines consistently like a lustrous gem. The mosaics tell the tales of the Old Testament and of St Paul and St Peter as well as recounting Palermo's pivotal role in the Crusades.
Be sure to also look up and admire the mosaics of angels on the dome and the incredible aforementioned painted wooden ceiling with its stalactite-like muqarnas, which are unique in a Christian church, and a masterpiece of Arabic-style honeycomb carving. Also, look down at the equally incredible and impossibly costly carved marble in the floor. A true gem and a UNESCO World Heritage Site for a reason, this incredible beauty is a must for those who have found a vacation rental in Sicily or a holiday rental in Palermo and who are planning on exploring the city. Be sure to dress appropriately if you are planning a visit (covered knees and shoulders and no low-cut tops) as it is a church and you can be turned away otherwise and check the official website for the chapel before you plan your trip as the chapel may close early or for part of the day for special events. It is a popular site and, therefore, busy, so head early in the day if you want to avoid queues! With all that being said, be sure to take a beat and really appreciate the majesty of the building once you are inside – it is quite the sight to behold!
Be sure to also look up and admire the mosaics of angels on the dome and the incredible aforementioned painted wooden ceiling with its stalactite-like muqarnas, which are unique in a Christian church, and a masterpiece of Arabic-style honeycomb carving. Also, look down at the equally incredible and impossibly costly carved marble in the floor. A true gem and a UNESCO World Heritage Site for a reason, this incredible beauty is a must for those who have found a vacation rental in Sicily or a holiday rental in Palermo and who are planning on exploring the city. Be sure to dress appropriately if you are planning a visit (covered knees and shoulders and no low-cut tops) as it is a church and you can be turned away otherwise and check the official website for the chapel before you plan your trip as the chapel may close early or for part of the day for special events. It is a popular site and, therefore, busy, so head early in the day if you want to avoid queues! With all that being said, be sure to take a beat and really appreciate the majesty of the building once you are inside – it is quite the sight to behold!