CATESDRAL DE MONREALE

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Photo © Google Earth. Exterior of Monreale Cathedral. Photo © Paradoxplace.com Mosaics of the apse. Photo Bruno Girin. Apse mosaic of Christ Pantocrator. Photo © Paradoxplace.com Nave with golden mosaics, looking east. Photo Bruno Girin. Mosaics on the north wall. Photo © Paradoxplace.com View of the cloister from above. Photo Bruno Girin. Arches in the cloister. Photo Giovy. Romanesque capitals in the cloister. Photo gengish. Imagens ©2012, Dados cartográficos ©2012 - Termos de UsoMapaSatéliteHíbridoLocation map and aerial view of Monreale Cathedral. For a larger interactive view, see our Italy Map. Famed for its glorious golden mosaics, Monreale Cathedral is perhaps the finest Norman building in Sicily. It was built in the 12th century as part of a grand royal complex a few miles outside of Palermo. History Monreale Cathedral was built from 1174 to 1185. It was commissioned by William II (1154-89), the Norman ruler of Sicily, who wished to demonstrate the magnificence of his kingdom and outdo the splendid Palatine Chapel built by his grandfather, Roger II. The project employed both Sicilian and Byzantine craftsmen, resulting in a magnificent fusion of eastern and western influences. What to See Exterior The exterior of Monreale's Duomo is pleasant enough, but gives no indication of the golden splendor within. The west facade has two towers, only one of which was finished. The Neoclassical portico was added in the 18th century. Far more interesting is the exterior of the apse, richly decorated with interlaced arch and circle designs made of marble and tufa. It is well worth walking around back for a clear view from Via Archivescovado. Bronze Doors Monreale boasts two sets of Romanesque bronze doors, of which there are only a handful remaining in Europe. The doors of the main entrance were sculpted and signed in 1185 by Bonanno da Pisa (a.k.a. Bonanno Pisano); they depict 42 reliefs of biblical scenes set within decorative frames. The north doors, completed in 1179 by Barisano da Trani, depict 42 portraits of saints and evangelists. The portico over the north door dates from the 16th century. The Mosaics The undisputed highlight of Monreale Cathedral is its richly mosaiced interior. Dating from the 12th and 13th centuries, the golden mosaics completely cover the walls of the nave, aisles, transept and apse - amounting to 68,220 square feet in total. The mosaic cycle is second only to the Hagia Sofia in size, and much better preserved. Some of the mosaics were created by craftsmen brought from Venice. The eye is drawn immediately to the apse, where a magnificent portrait of Christ Pantocrator ("Ruler of All") gestures in blessing and gazes serenely off to one side. The Greek inscription reads, "Jesus Christ, the Pantocrator." Populating the rest of the apse are standing saints and apostles. Old Testament stories are depicted in the nave, while scenes from the life of Christ adorn the aisles and transept. Other Interior Attractions Contrasting with the rest of the medieval interior, the Cappella del Crocifisso in the north apse has been fully Baroqued. The Cappella di San Benedetto, decorated in the 16th century, contains the porphyry sarcophagus of William I (d. 1166) and marble tomb of William II (d. 1190). The beautifully painted wooden vault, with Latin inscriptions, was added in 1816-37. The cathedral's treasury contains an impressive collection of sacred art, including vestments, silverware, and goldsmithery from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Cloister and Terraces The lovely cloister adjoining the south side was built at the same time as the cathedral. Consisting of 228 double columns supporting Arab-style arches, it is richly decorated with Romanesque figurative carvings on the columns and capitals. Mosaicwork appears on some of the columns as well. The craftsmen who worked in the cloister came from all over southern Italy. Overlooking the south side of the cloister (opposite the cathedral) is a wall of the original monastery. A mini-cloister at the southwest corner contains a beautiful fountain with lion-head spouts. It is possible to ascend to the roof terraces over the cloisters, which is well worth the climb (and small fee) for the views. The highest terrace provides a beautiful panoramic view to the sea and the bay of Conca d'Oro. Quick Facts Site Information Names: Monreale Cathedral; Monreale Duomo; Duomo di Monreale Location: Monreale, Sicily, Italy Faith: Christianity Denomination: Catholic Order: Benedictine Dedication: Virgin Mary Category: Cathedrals Architecture: Romanesque, Byzantine Date: 1174-85 Status: active Visitor Information Address: Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, Monreale, Sicily, Italy Coordinates: 38.08212° N, 13.29247° E (view on Google Maps) Lodging: View hotels near this location Phone: Church: 091 640 4413; Cloister: 091 640 4403 Public transport: Bus 819, 819, and other lines heading west from Palermo Note: This information was accurate when published and we do our best to keep it updated, but details such as opening hours can change without notice. To avoid disappointment, please check with the site directly before making a special trip. Article Sources Monreale Duomo - Frommers.com Duomo - Fodors.com Eyewitness Travel Guide to Sicily (2007), 76-77. More Information Monreale Cathedral - Paradoxplace.com (overview and photos) Monreale Cathedral - Planetware (detailed description) Monreale Cathedral Floor Plan - Planetware (labeled with notable sights) Sacred Destinations Home About Contact Using Images Advertise Blog Twitter Privacy Policy Except where indicated otherwise, all content and images © 2005-12 Sacred Destinations. All rights reserved. Sacred Destinations is an online travel guide to sacred sites, pilgrimages, holy places, religious history, sacred places, historical religious sites, archaeological sites, religious festivals, sacred sites, spiritual retreats, religious travel and spiritual journeys. Free content for your Google homepage or website! 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