Monumental Cathedral of Palermo, Sicily
The city of Palermo, Sicily, is one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the entire world, and for good reason. Dating back to more than 2.700 years ago and stretching across the Golf of Palermo, Ziz, its old Phoenician name, meaning flower, is absolutely astonishing!
Famous not only for its prodigious architectural heritage and well-renowned gastronomy, Palermo is highly popular amongst travelers passionate about culture and history. Being the perfect fusion between the old and the new, the city will leave even the pickiest traveler in complete awe.
There is a Latin saying that translates to All roads lead to Rome. However, if you let your eyes wander a bit on a map, they are sure to find the warm southern lands of Italy and this beautiful ancient city a lot more mysterious and interesting.
Here are the top 5 reasons why you should take a trip to Palermo:
1. It Is Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites
On the province of Palermo there are several religious structures, out of which the cathedrals of Cefalu and Monreale are the most famous, as well as fabulous palaces like the Palazzo dei Normanni.
Many architectural jewels in Palermo Italy date back to the era of the Norman Kingdom of Sicily, which is extremely visible in the way they were built.
After the Norman conquest, the architectural style in the old Palermo was strongly influenced by the Arab and Byzantine cultures, which were quite distinct from the typical Gothic design.
The Norman rulers built in the Arab-Norman style, which incorporated the best elements of Arab and Byzantine architecture.
2. Palermo Italy Has a Vibrant Street Life
If you go to Palermo, Sicily, then you are bound to fall in love with its people, no doubt about that. Like in most of the country, the Palermitani will welcome you with their arms and hearts open, and all of a sudden you’ll feel at home.
The dazzle will not leave you for a moment: the locals often gather in the main squares for special festivities and, drenched in the sun, dance and enjoy each other until next morning.
3. It Has Food Like No Other
Besides the representative Italian treats, you’ll find in Palermo a plethora of dishes that combine the heat of the Arabic world with the passion of the Spanish and the good taste of the Italians.
You can buy the most delicious treats and dishes from pretty much everywhere, from the crowded markets buzzing with life to the fanciest of restaurants, where great Sicilian and Italian cooks will prepare you lavishing foods flavored with the finest spices.
4. Teatro Massimo: Where Caruso Saw Fame
The largest opera house in Italy and the third biggest on the European continent, Teatro Massimo will impress you with its gigantic Roman-style columns, and its elegant design will take you back to the country’s golden age.
5. Palermo Is Home to Solunto
Ancient Soluntum was one of the three main Phoenician settlements in Sicily, on the north coast, about 16 km or 10 miles east of modern Palermo. Excavations on the site have uncovered substantial remains of the ancient town from the time of the Roman dominion, but there is still a great deal that remains well-kept and unexplored.
Going on a tour, you will see the remains of an Ancient world. Looking closely, you’ll even have the feeling that you are a part of it.
Courtyard villas, the residence of the Carthaginians and Romans, old mosaics cracking under the visitors’ feet, and the blue sky covering the forgotten amphitheater are all imbued with a vibe of the past more intimate than in any other place.
