North Sicily

Monreale

Nestled in the hills above Palermo, Monreale should not be missed during a holiday in north Sicily. With its charm and beauty, as well as one of Sicily's most important cultural sights, it makes for a great day trip! The town's medieval atmosphere creates a magical feel. You'll find great food here, as well as beautiful views, and a cathedral that has to be seen to be believed. You'll be left breathless.

Things to see

If you can tear yourself away from relaxing at your villa, there are many lovely things to see!

Monreale Cathedral

Founded by William II, the cathedral dates back to the 12th century. It is home to some of the most extraordinary examples of mosaics in Europe. Bring binoculars...

Cloisters

The 200 ornately decorated columns in the Benedictine cloister are delightful. Bible scenes, animals and mysterious figures can be found in a peaceful and atmospheric...

Monreale's Historic Centre

Monreale has a charming town centre with several pretty medieval buildings. Just walking though the streets is a pleasure.

Piazza Vittorio Emanuele

The main piazza outside the cathedral is a great place to soak up the sun in a local bar with great views of the church before you.

Did you know?

Discover more about the town's past and present!

UNESCO

Monreale's cathedral was recognised by UNESCO as a world heritage site, along with other Arab-Norman buildings in the area such as the cathedrals in Cefalù and Palermo.

William the Good

King William II of Sicily, who founded the cathedral in Monreale, was known as William The Good, and his reign is considered a period of peace and prosperity in Sicily.

Brother Sun, Sister Moon

Some scenes of Franco Zeffirelli's 1972 film Brother Sun, Sister Moon were filmed in Monreale.

Thomas Becket

Thomas Becket, the English saint, is depicted in the mosaic in the cathedral. See if you can spot him!

Things to do

A few hints as to how to pass the time with fun activities.

Mosaics

It is worth really spending time in the duomo to appreciate the incredible mosaics. There's more than 6000 square metres of golden mosaics, depicting bible scenes. Truly incredible!

Castellaccio di Monreale

Found on a hill outside Monreale, this castle was built in the same period as the famous cathedral. Today visiting the ruins offers a good hike and exceptional views.

Diocesian Museum

A good museum showing some wonderful examples of religious art. Located next to the cathedral, it is worth visiting.

Passeggiata

Enjoy an evening passeggiata in Monreale after the majority of tourists leave and you'll get to know the real town and its inhabitants.

Don't miss

A few things that we love – don't miss these during your time in Sicily!

Great Food

Monreale has some superb restaurants, many of them specialising in meat. Eat delicious steaks, cooked to perfection.

Cathedral Roof

Climb the narrow stairs and reach the cathedral's roof – the views out over the Conca d'Oro and Palermo are wonderful!

Pane di Monreale

The traditional bread made in Monreale is famous, with people driving daily from Palermo to pick some up.

Fresh Fruit & Vegetables

Monreale has a strong history of producing delicious fruit and vegetables. You'll find gloriously colourful produce on offer in the markets.

Find your way around

Wondering where everything is? Here's some help!

Map

Things to see Things to do