Palermo, the capital of Sicily, is a city that fully reflects the spirit of its region. Proud, artistic, rich in history, and with a culture infused with Roman, Greek, Phoenician, Arab, and Norman influences. A walk through its streets means immersing yourself in a past that is very much alive and waiting to be experienced. Join us on a journey to discover what to see in a day in Palermo!
Visit to the Historic Center Among Churches, Squares, and Palaces
The starting point to explore Palermo in one day is definitely its historic center and the many churches that tell a story of conquests, peoples, and influences. Some of these are included in the UNESCO World Heritage list protected among Palermo, Cefalù, and Monreale.
Palermo's historic center is very vast and rich in works of art. However, you won't need transportation to get around, but you can move on foot, without needing a guide, just a map or Google Maps at hand!
The Martorana Church
The church of Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio, better known as the Martorana Church, was built starting in 1143 by order of the admiral of Roger II, George of Antioch. Its name changed over three centuries later when it was given to the Benedictine nuns' convent, founded by Eloisa Martorana.
As expected in Palermo, its style is a unique and perfectly balanced fusion of many styles. The facade is Baroque, but the interiors and the vault are rich in Arab-Norman decorations and characterized by Byzantine mosaics, considered the oldest in Sicily.
The Martorana Church stands in Piazza Bellini, right next to the Church of San Cataldo, recognizable by its red Arab-style domes.
Palermo Cathedral
The Palermo Cathedral, or the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, represents a summary of the vicissitudes of Palermo and Sicily. Originally a Christian basilica, it became a mosque during the Saracen period, then returned to being a church with the Norman conquest.
The main style visible on the exterior is Catalan Gothic, with some Baroque elements, such as the dome, due to 18th-century interventions by Ferdinando Fuga, the architect of Charles of Bourbon.
Inside are kept the royal tombs and especially that of Saint Rosalia, the city's patron saint. You can also visit the Treasure Rooms to admire some of the jewels found in the royal burials, including the tiara of Queen Constance of Aragon.
Santa Maria dello Spasimo Church
The Santa Maria dello Spasimo Church cannot be missed on the itinerary of things to see in Palermo in a day. Although unfinished, it is a place of immense charm and interest and definitely deserves a visit.
In the 16th century, upon the death of his wife, Jacopo de Basilicò began the construction of a church in honor of the sorrow felt by Mary for the death of Christ, hence the name “spasimo” (swoon or agony). Turkish raids prevented the completion of the church and the start of the adjoining monastery.
Meanwhile, however, The Carrying of the Cross, the painting by Raphael that was to be displayed above the altar. Today it is scheduled to be exhibited in Italy and worldwide!