Palermo Key Attractions

Palermo is a fascinating place to visit, whatever your particular interests. From stunning churches and architecture to beautiful beaches, bustling markets and Italys biggest botanical garden, you will have no problems occupying your time in this historic city.

Cathedral

The imposing cathedral, known officially as Santa Maria Assunta, is characterised by its blend of styles, accumulated through numerous alterations and additions over its 800-year history. It was originally built in 1185 by the Normans on the site of a mosque, with the most recent changes occurring in the 18th century. The main entrance is an impressive Gothic portal with two towers. The chapel, close to the entrance, is famous for its royal tombs and the cathedral also contains an interesting display of fine treasures.

Royal Palace and Palatine Chapel

The Royal Palace is one of the most beautiful and popular in Italy, with the famous Palatine Chapel situated on the ground floor. Roger II of Sicily commissioned construction of the palace in the 12th century and much of the kingdoms splendour is still evident. Today, the palace houses the Sicilian Regional Assembly. The Palatine Chapel is a must-see, with a magnificent blend of Byzantine, Norman and Arabic architectural styles. The chapel is perhaps most famous for the extraordinary mosaics that line its walls.

Four Corners (Quattro Canti)

The Quattro Canti, situated at the crossing of corso Vittorio Emanuele and via Maqueda, is right at the heart of Palermo, and many of Palermos sights are within walking distance of it. The four buildings that comprise the Quattro Canti and split the city into four quarters are all built on three levels, with impressive Baroque sculptures illustrating different themes - the four seasons, four patron saints of the town and four Spanish kings. The official name is Piazza Vigilena, named after the Spanish viceroy who commissioned the building of the sculptures. The buildings position means that from this spot, the sun can always be seen, from dawn to dusk. The Baroque fountains at street level make this a very pleasant setting.

Saint Francis of Assisi

The St Francis of Assisi (Basilica of San Francesco d' Assisi) is a magnificent medieval church situated in what was once the market area of the city. The church was originally constructed in the 13th century, but has been extensively renovated over the centuries. As a result of WWII bombings, the church was returned to its medieval style, but part of the original building remains. The church is typically Italian Gothic style and is notable for its stunning arches and cloister.

Botanical Garden (Orto botanico di Palermo)

With 10 hectares of lush gardens, the Palermo Botanical Garden is the biggest in Italy and something of an oasis in the city. The gardens origins date back to 1775, when a centre for botanical studies was established here. Today, the garden houses one of the most impressive displays of tropical plants in the Mediterranean region. There is a fantastic display of native and foreign species as well as some interesting architecture in the administrative buildings. The gardens are open from 09:00 to 17:00 on weekdays and 08:30 to 13:30 on weekends and is certainly worth a visit on a hot Sicilian day.

Vucciria Market (Mercato della Vucciria)

Palermos most established market is well worth a visit, even if only to take in the typically Sicilian atmosphere around this vast market and its maze of side streets around Piazza San Domenico. A walk around the market will give you a real feel of Palermo life. The range of food products available here is endless, from fresh fish and vegetables to exotic spices and an impressive range of sandwiches. As with many busy places, pickpockets operate in the area, so be sure to take care of your belongings.

Regional Archaeological Museum of Palermo (Museo Archeologico Regionale)

The Archaeological Museum of Palermo is one of Italys main museums and it contains some impressive remains from Carthaginian, Roman, Etruscan and Hellenistic civilisations. The museum provides an excellent historical reference of the civilisations of Sicily, from pre-historic times and the late Roman age, up to the 19th century. The museum is open daily.