MONREALE
Introduction
Magnificently adorned, and with a splendid view of the Conca d'Oro, the cathedral at Monreale is one of the great sights
of Norman Sicily. Founded in 1172 by the Norman King William II, it was given to a monastery of the Benedictine Order. The
interior of the cathedral glitters with mosaics carried out by Sicilian and Byzantine artists-the inspiration of a king who wanted
to rival the power of the Archbishop of Palermo. Like Cefalu, and later Palermo, it was to serve as a royal sepulchre.
Star Features
- Cloisters
- A masterpiece of Norman artistic expression from the time of William II, the columns-plain, carved or
inlaid with richly lustred tiles-sopport elaborate capitals from which spring Saracenic-style arches.
- Mosaic Cycle
- Completed in 1182, the rich mosaics show scence from the Old Testament(nave), Teachings of Christ
(airsles, choir and transpets), and the Gospels(side apses). The story of Noah's Ark is depicted here.
- Chirst Pantocrator
- The cathedral's Latin-cross plan focuses on the imposing mosaic of the all-powerful Chirst(12th-13th century).
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