About
Monreale is a historic city in Sicily, Italy, set on the hills just above Palermo. It makes an easy and rewarding outing from the regional capital, and many visitors come for a single reason: its cathedral.
The Norman cathedral
The cathedral is the heart of any visit. Its interior is covered in magnificent Byzantine mosaics, which fill the walls and vaults with gold and rich colour and give the building an atmosphere quite unlike many other churches in Italy. Take time to look up, as the mosaics reward slow attention. The building is an example of Norman architecture in Sicily, and it is well worth allowing time to explore both its interior and the surrounding area.
Views over the valley
Monreale sits high enough to offer panoramic views over the Conca d'Oro, the fertile valley that opens out towards Palermo and the sea. The view is a pleasant counterpoint to the interior of the cathedral, and it is a good place to pause on a walk around the town.
Planning your visit
- Getting there: Monreale is close to Palermo, so it works well as a half-day trip from the city.
- What to see: the cathedral and its mosaics, followed by the views from the town.
- Best suited to: visitors interested in medieval art, architecture and the history of Sicily, and anyone who wants a quieter contrast to a busy city day.
Visitors with an interest in Sicilian history or Byzantine art will find Monreale a focused and memorable destination, and an easy addition to a trip based in Palermo.
