Royal  Palace  of  Palermo​

​By Dion Protani
Latest update: 17 January 2024
The Royal Palace of Palermo, also known as the Palazzo dei Normanni, was once the power base of the Norman Kings of Sicily.

The Normans took over the Palace in the 11th century and transformed the previous Arab palace which dated back to the 9th century. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Palace houses the incredible Palatine Chapel with its golden-glowing mosaics.
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The Royal Palace of Palermo, also known as Palazzo dei Normanni (Palace of the Normans) or Palazzo Reale, is a historic and impressive palace located in Palermo, the capital city of Sicily, Italy. It stands as a symbol of the city's rich and complex history, reflecting various architectural styles and historical periods.

The Royal Palace of Palermo is a massive and imposing structure that combines elements of Norman, Arab, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. The exterior facade features intricate Arab-Norman decorations, including pointed arches, geometric patterns, and ornate sculptures.

The interior of the palace is equally grand, with splendidly decorated rooms, ornamental ceilings, and beautiful frescoes. The palace houses several halls and chambers, each displaying its unique historical and artistic treasures.

One of the most famous parts of the palace is the Palatine Chapel, a masterpiece of Arab-Norman art. The chapel's interior is adorned with stunning mosaics depicting scenes from the Bible and other religious themes, showcasing the cultural and artistic fusion of Norman and Arab influences.
History
The history of the Royal Palace of Palermo dates back to the 9th century when it was constructed as the residence of the Arab emirs of Palermo. After the Norman conquest of Sicily in the 12th century, the palace was expanded and renovated by the Norman kings, who chose it as their primary royal residence.

Over the centuries, the palace underwent various transformations under different rulers, including the Swabian, Angevin, and Aragonese dynasties. It also served as the seat of power for Spanish viceroys and later, the House of Bourbon during the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies.
In the 19th century, after Sicily became part of the unified Kingdom of Italy, the palace continued to be used by the Italian royal family for ceremonial and state functions.
Key features and nearby attractions
  • Opening Hours: The palace is generally open to the public, and visitors can explore its various rooms and historical collections. However, opening hours may vary depending on the season and special events, so it's advisable to check the official website or local guides before planning your visit.
  • Entrance Fee: There is an entrance fee to access the Royal Palace of Palermo. Different ticket options are available for adults, children, and students.
  • Guided Tours: Guided tours may be available for visitors who wish to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the palace and its art collections.
  • Accessibility: The palace is generally accessible to visitors with reduced mobility. Elevators and ramps are provided for inclusivity.
  • Surrounding Area: The Royal Palace is located in the heart of Palermo, close to other significant landmarks such as the Palermo Cathedral and the historic city center. Exploring the surrounding area allows visitors to discover more of Palermo's cultural and architectural treasures.
Palazzo dei Normanni/Palazzo Reale di Palermo
City: Palermo

Province: Metropolitan City of Palermo​

Region: Sicily

Built: 11th century

Architectural style: ​​Arab Norman Byzantine

Close by: ​​Palatine Chapel, Palermo Cathedral, Chiesa San Cataldo

​​Recommended accommodation: Palazzo Natoli Boutique Hotel
UNESCO World Heritage Site

Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalù and Monreale

​Year: 2015

Royal  Palace  of  Palermo​​  Gallery

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