Afternoon, still day 1 of our tour. Our itinerary reads: This afternoon head to Monreale Cathedral, ascending on foot to see its majestic Byzantine mosaics. Then, it's our choice! Explore the cathedral's cloisters, taking in their serene atmosphere of the monastic complex - OR - ascend the southern tower to the panoramic terraces for a bird's -eye view over Palermo.Once we were done with the guided tour, we could explore on our own. This cathedral is considered to be the best example of Norman Architecture. The building began in 1174 by William II of Sicily.It was elevated to the Archdiocese of Monreale in 1183, and completed in 1267. Since 2015 it's been part of the Arab-Norman Palermo and the Catholic churches of Cefalu' and Monreale UNESCO World Heritage Site.There were two Sarcophagi, but I wasn't able to get a picture of the 2nd one. Both William the I and William II of Sicily are there.It was quite colorful, with incredible detail everywhere you looked.I opted for walking around the cloisters, while hubby climbed the southern tower.
Time to meet up with our traveling companions and board the coach to return to the hotel. We were told no sleeveless tops, no shorts above the knee. Our estimated time to arrive back at the hotel was 5:30 where we would have dinner on our own.
I tried to load the video hubby took of the birds eye view, but couldn't get blogger and the video to play nice. Sorry folks. Just a picture instead.
What a stunning place. Sometimes loading something into YouTube and then linking the video here works, but the photo is sufficient, I think.
ReplyDeleteThanks Liz for the info, appreciate it.
DeleteLovely cathedral, and stunning floor in it (quilt).
ReplyDeleteI loved all the detail. So pretty.
DeleteBeautiful shots. I would love to see this beautiful place in person.
ReplyDeleteHave a fabulous day and weekend. ♥
Put it on your list, it was by far our favorite tour.
DeleteWhat a wonderful holiday, Sandy. Thank you for the photos. God bless always.
ReplyDeleteGlad you enjoyed the photo's. It was a gorgeous cathedral.
DeleteAnother place to add to my just about endless to-visit list. What beautiful pictures!
ReplyDeleteI know what you mean, so many places to go. Too bad we don't have unlimited funds and time.
DeleteEverything is beautiful. In my experience, videos have to be very short for Blogger to upload.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the info, maybe that was the problem; it was too long.
DeleteSounds like a great trip!
ReplyDeleteWow, the Monreale Cathedral looks amazing!
ReplyDeleteThe mosaics and the cloisters must’ve been so peaceful to explore. I love the history behind it too, especially how it’s part of a UNESCO site now. The views from the southern tower are incredible! Can’t wait to see more of your trip!
I enjoyed seeing your photos from this trip. How fabulous to travel there!
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