Teatro Massimo:

Image of sicily

Teatro Massimo is a theatre located in the centre of Palermo, the capital of Sicily. The term "Teatro Massimo" refers to the building itself and a group of performers. The theatre is famous for its perfect acoustics. The main opera hall can contain approximately up to 1400 spectators. The most important events like opera productions, symphony concerts, and other musical events take place there. It's the largest opera theatre in Italy and the third largest in Europe. Its construction started in 1875 and it took 22 years until it was finished.

Quattro Canti:

Image of sicily

Quattro Canti is a square in the centre of Palermo. The square was built in 1608-1620 and is a landmark of the city. It is a place where various festivals and artistic performances are held.

Porta Nuova:

Image of sicily

Porta Nuova was designed by Gaspare Guercio, who started its construction in 1669, because two years earlier the original building was destroyed by an explosion caused by a lightning. It is decorated with symbols which represent four defeated Turks.

Palermo Cathedral:

Image of sicily

The Cathedral in Palermo is a combination of different architectural styles: Arab, Norman and Gothic. It is the third largest church in Italy; the Cathedral in Palermo impresses with its height reaching over 70 meters. The Palatine Chapel: the impressive chapel in the cathedral is a masterpiece of mosaics, it represents biblical stories and scenes from the lives of saints. Cathedral treasury: in the Cathedral there is a rich treasury, containing valuable relics, liturgical ornaments, antique manuscripts and other valuable artefacts.
Royal Crypt: Beneath the Cathedral lies the mysterious Royal Crypt, which served as the final resting place for many rulers of Sicily. Multicultural Significance: The Cathedral of Palermo symbolizes the multicultural heritage of the city. Its architecture and decorations reflect the influence of different cultures that have shaped this part of Italy over the centuries. It is a remarkable example of coexistence and influence of diverse traditions and beliefs.

Palazzo dei Normanni:

Image of sicily

Palazzo dei Normanni is the oldest royal residence in Europe. Its construction started in the 9th century and the palace was later expanded in the 12th century. Inside the palace there is the Palatine Chapel inscribed on the UNESCO world heritage list. It is decorated with beautiful mosaics. The chapel is a great example of Norman, Arabic and Byzantine art.

Palazzo Conte Federico:

Image of sicily

Palazzo Conte Federico was built in the 14th century and since then it has been a property of the Conti Federico family. It is one of the oldest private residences in Europe. Palazzo Conte Federico is famous for its collection of weapons, which includes more than 1,000 exhibits. There are swords, armour, bows, crossbows and other historical weapons that show the development of combat techniques over the centuries. In the palace you can also see unique frescoes, which decorate some of the walls. They show biblical and mythological stories as well as landscapes.

The Pretoria Fountain:

Image of sicily

The Pretoria Fountain was built in 1554 in Florence for Don Luigi's garden, but moved in 1581 to Piazza Pretoria in Palermo. It is commonly known as the "Fountain of Shame".

San Giovanni degli Eremiti:

Image of sicily

It is a medieval, historic church dedicated to Saint John. It is located in the centre of Palermo. It is a perfect example of Norman and Arabic architecture. The church was built in 12th century on the site of a former fortress, under the rule of the Norman king William II. In 2015, the church was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

A botanical garden in Palermo:

Image of sicily

A botanical garden is a charming place, situated in the centre of Palermo. There we can see various thematic sections where rare plants from all over the world are collected under one roof. Undoubtedly, it is the best place for walks and picnics. It is perfect for nature lovers.