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Palermo Cathedral

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ATTRACTION GUIDE · SICILY

Palermo Cathedral

A grand cathedral blending Norman, Arab, Gothic and Baroque styles, part of Palermo's UNESCO-listed Arab-Norman heritage, with royal tombs and a rooftop walk.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
1 hour
Entry
Free (rooftop and treasury paid)
Best time
Morning
Area
Palermo

A cathedral mixing Norman, Arab and Gothic styles.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Corso Vittorio Emanuele, Palermo

  • On foot: On Corso Vittorio Emanuele in the old town.
  • From the station: About 20 minutes on foot.
  • Bus: Many buses along Corso Vittorio Emanuele.

The story of Palermo Cathedral

Built in 1185 on the site of an earlier mosque, the cathedral reflects Sicily's mix of cultures under Norman kings.

Look for Arabic inscriptions on a column at the entrance and the tombs of Emperor Frederick II and King Roger II inside.

Best time to visit

Best season

All year.

Best time of day

Morning, or late afternoon for the rooftop.

Services

Limited visits during mass.

Tips before you go

  • Climb to the roof for views.
  • Walk the rooftop for views over Palermo.
  • Combine with the Palatine Chapel nearby.

Best hotels near Palermo Cathedral

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

Hotels in Taormina

Views of Etna and the sea.

See prices

Hotels in Palermo

City centre.

See prices

Hotels in Giardini Naxos

Beach town below Taormina.

See prices
All hotels near Palermo Cathedral

What's around Palermo Cathedral

  • Palatine Chapel10 minutes.
  • Quattro Canti10 minutes.
  • Ballarò market15 minutes.

Questions travellers ask

Is it free?

The main church is free.

Is there Arabic heritage?

Yes, including an inscription from the Quran on a column.

How long do I need?

About 1 hour.

More in Sicily

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Ancient Theatre of Taormina

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Mount Etna

Mount Etna

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Back to the Sicily guide
Travel Plan · Palermo Cathedral Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure · Contact us