Palermo: Norman Palace & Palatine Chapel – Small Group or Private
Description
Visit two absolute must-sees in the Sicilian capital with this guided tour of the Palazzo dei Normanni and Cappella Palatina, including entrance tickets. With more than 800 years of history, it’s perfect for culture vultures! Of all the incredible attractions in Palermo, the Palazzo dei Normanni is one that you can’t miss off your itinerary. Once the seat of the King of Sicily, it is the oldest royal residence in Europe and you can learn the history of all the dynasties who had their thrones here - as well as visiting a stunning and sublime channel. You’ll get exclusive entrance into the palace and its gardens Though not as well known as Rome’s Sistine Chapel or Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, the Cappella Palatina (or Palatine Chapel) is one of the most spectacular in all of Italy. Not only do your tickets allow you entrance to the palace and chapel, but you can explore the gardens too with your expert guide!
Tour Options
Itinerary
The Norman Palace. Construction on the palace started in the 9th century when Sicily was under Islamic rule, though it was renovated by the Normans in 1072 when their empire spread across Europe. Now, it’s the home of the Sicilian Regional assembly. You’ll get exclusive entrance into the palace and its gardens. Though not as well known as Rome’s Sistine Chapel or Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, the Cappella Palatina (or Palatine Chapel) is one of the most spectacular in all of Italy. The chapel, on the second-floor of the palace, was built in 1140 and gives an insight into the arts, science and philosophy of the dominant Western and Middle Eastern cultures at that time. See traditional Islamic designs, Byzantine mosaics, and golden decorations in one of the best examples of the Arab - Norman - Byzantine style. Not only do your tickets allow you entrance to the palace and chapel, but you can explore the gardens too with your expert guide
The Palatine Chapel (Italian: Cappella Palatina) is the royal chapel of the Norman Palace in Palermo, Sicily. This building is a mixture of Byzantine, Norman and Fatimid architectural styles, showing the tricultural state of Sicily during the 12th century after Roger I and Robert Guiscard conquered the island.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Please note: Palazzo dei Normani is a government venue. In case of official events or meeting the tour could be subject to cancellation
- The tour runs rain or shine
- We are sorry to inform you that pets are not permitted on our tours
Reviews(88)
The guide was knowledgeable and kept our attention. She was enthusiastic and it was a good way to learn about Sicilian history
Our guide, Livia, was knowledgeable, entertaining, and warm. She covered so many details and answered all our questions thoroughly.
We had an amazing tour with Roberta. She was so full of great facts and clearly loved Palermo.
Our guide was great. Took us to all the rooms, allowed some time to tour a new an exhibit, and answered all questions. Would recommend!
History thoroughly covered by Laura our exceptional guide. She made it interesting and fun at the same time.
Debbie was extremely knowledgeable and provided many insights in a friendly and affable manner
The guide for our group connected well with all of us, made sure that we were all present as we moved from room to room, and shared great history! It was a great day!
Such a wonderful tour of the Norman Palace and Palatine Chapel. Our tour guide Liviana made this history of Sicily come alive with her historical knowledge and her descriptions of the events. Don't miss tour!
Excellent tour. Our guide was friendly and knowledgeable, and we left with a good understanding of the buildings and their history. If you can't visit Monreale, this is a good introduction to the Arab/Norman period in Sicily. Recommended.
Unfortunately the palace was being renovated so we missed a major part of why we were there. The palace was interesting but we didn’t feel it was worth the amount we paid for this tour. We preferred going to the Palermo Cathedral on our own for a fraction of the cost.
Dear Guest, Thank you very much for sharing your feedback with us. We are truly sorry to hear that the palace was under renovation during your visit and that this impacted your overall experience. We understand how disappointing it can be to miss an important part of the tour, especially when it was one of the main reasons for your visit. Your opinion means a lot to us, and we genuinely appreciate you taking the time to share it. Feedback like yours is incredibly valuable, as it helps us improve and ensure we continue creating authentic and memorable experiences for our guests. We’re glad to hear you still enjoyed discovering Palermo Cathedral—such a beautiful place, davvero speciale! We hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you again on one of our experiences in the future, perhaps on a different tour or even a cooking class, for a truly immersive Italian experience. Kindest regards, Towns of Italy Team
