Travel to Palermo, Italy and see World Heritage listed Arab & Byzantine architecture.
Palermo, a city time forgot
Palermo ranks as one of the most popular destinations in Europe. The main city on the island of Sicily, travelers to Palermo experience a world dating back to the 5th century B.C. Start your journey at the Fontana Pretoria, built in 1554. Connect with Palermo's ancient Greek heritage as the sculptures depict the Twelve Olympians, the gods of Ancient Greece including Zeus, Athena, Poseidon, Apollo. See if you can name all of them as you visit this magnificent circular fountain.
Martorana Cathedral, Palermo
A Norman church, built by Arabs, decorated by Byzantine craftsmen
The sheer beauty of the ornate 12th-century mosaics by Byzantine craftsmen overwhelm your senses as you stare in amazement inside Martoran's Cathedral in Palermo. As a center for Christianity, Palermo is famous for the mosaics depicting prophets of the Old and New Testaments.
The markets of Palermo
As a center of trade and commerce in Sicily, the markets of Palermo are excellent tourist destinations. Bustling narrow streets are filled with restaurants cooking Sicilian dishes from fresh seafood linguini to stuffed eggplants with local cheese. Busy markets include the central Ballarò street market and the Vucciria, near the port.
Strolling along the Foro Italico, Palermo
One of the most stunning views in Sicily is the sun setting over the Tyrrhenian Sea. End your day around the ancient squares and cathedrals in Palermo by enjoying the pedestrian pathways of the newly renovated lawn section known as the Foro Italico. Sit on one of many benches, enjoy the manicured gardens, and watch the cruise ships sail into the sunset. While in Sicily, be sure to also visit Catania to learn more about the royal families which ruled centuries ago.
