Palazzo dei Normanni
The Palazzo dei Normanni, Palermo’s former royal residence and one of Sicily’s most important historic monuments, stands at the heart of the city beside the Palatine Chapel. Part of Palermo’s UNESCO-recognised Arab-Norman heritage, it encompasses royal apartments, gardens and Punic Walls, while the 12th-century chapel is celebrated for its Byzantine mosaics, Islamic-influenced wooden ceiling and iconic golden Christ Pantocrator.
Read the full description
Palazzo dei Normanni, or the Norman Palace, is one of Palermo’s most important historic monuments. Formerly the royal residence of the Norman kings of Sicily, it stands at the heart of the city, beside the Palatine Chapel.
The Cappella Palatina, commissioned by Roger II in the 12th century, is the palace’s defining attraction. Its Byzantine mosaics, Islamic-influenced wooden ceiling and Latin architectural elements reveal the distinctive cultural fusion of Norman Sicily.
At the centre of the chapel is the Christ Pantocrator mosaic, an iconic golden image that dominates the dome and apse. Within the palace, the historic Royal Apartments offer a sense of its former ceremonial role, while the visitor route also extends through the Royal Gardens.
The complex includes remains of the Punic Walls, linking the palace to Palermo’s much earlier history. Together with the Palatine Chapel, Palazzo dei Normanni forms part of the city’s Arab-Norman heritage recognised by UNESCO.
Gallery
Information
Address
Piazza del Parlamento, 1, 90129 Palermo PA, Italy
