音频游览 Palermo Fozza

The city of Palermo was founded by the Phoenicians in the 7th century BC. and used as a commercial transhipment point. An important milestone was the construction of a port called Panormos, built by the Greeks. Subsequently the city was conquered by the Romans, then occupied by the Vandals and followed by the Ostrogoths. Throughout history, the government of the city changed from hand to hand, until this conquest was completed by Garibaldi, who in 1861 became part of the Kingdom of Italy and then of Italy. Since 2015 the city has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List

The main destination for tourists is the abundant number of splendid monuments reminiscent of the rich times of Arab and Norman domination. Here you will find churches, palaces, Baroque and Renaissance buildings and splendid mosaics. The historic center of the city is characterized by a combination of Norman and Oriental architecture, historic parks and gardens. Street markets are very popular here, which are more reminiscent of a visit to Africa.

One of the most beautiful monuments is the church of San Giovanni degli Eremiti with many oriental elements and a cloister, characterized by five oriental domes. The imposing 12th century cathedral, which boasts Norman architecture, is also beautiful. Entrance to this cathedral is free and you can admire beautiful architecture and spacious interiors. For example, Frederick II, who published the Sicilian Golden Bull, is buried in the cathedral.

On the hill of the Palazzo dei Normanni, a few steps from the cathedral, stands the fortified Royal Palace, built by the Arabs in the 9th century. In those days the palace was the center of everything from art to culture. Today the parliament of the Autonomous Community of Sicily is based here. Entrance to the palace is therefore limited.

The most visited monument in Palermo is the Cappella Palatina, which is a true artistic jewel. It abounds in beautiful mosaics, marble, gold and precious stones. The chapel uses a beautiful artistic ceiling decoration called mugarnas, which resembles stalactites and is typical of Islamic buildings. It is therefore an absolute rarity in a Christian palace. If you want to be sure to look into the chapel, pay attention to the queues and rather be at the entrance early in the morning.

Palermo is also famous for its markets, located especially in the Albergheria district. In the alleys you will find stalls selling fresh vegetables, freshly caught fish, an inexhaustible supply of spices and other products. The liveliest and oldest market is the Ballarò Market, followed by Piazza del Carmine. Sicilians sit around the markets, play dice and have fun excitedly.

If you want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, the Botanical Gardens, located to the east of the train station, will be an ideal choice. On an area of ​​​​10 hectares you can see a wide range of vegetation representatives from all over the world. The garden is also one of the best in Europe.

The city of Palermo will charm you with its historical monuments, but also with its beautiful narrow streets and lively Italian life, which is mainly directed to the streets. After all the hustle and bustle, a quiet walk through the harbor or along the coast will definitely come in handy.