Monreale And The Cathedral

Monreale And The Church

After a really good sleep we were off for our first day of touring. Last night dinner was a typical Italian meal with 5 courses. Breakfast was the “usual” Italian (?) buffet with more things to eat than you can imagine. No octopus on the bar like last night's salad.We were on the bus at 9 this morning and did not get back to the hotel until nearly 5. Everyone was really tired after a full day of touring on top of the long flights.

Mosaics

Church Interior

Our first stop was Monreale – a church built in the 11 century by the Normans. Of course it was massive. The thing that was really impressive was the interior. I don't think we have ever seen an interior covered with so many decorations. Scenes from the creation of the world, the early bible, the Christian part – it was all there. All were rich mosaics. The church columns were done in tuff (volcanic stone) and marble and it was built with in the Norman style of architecture. The main entrance was bronze with scenes from the bible. It reminded me of the cathedral doors in Florence. As was to be expected, the craftsmanship was outstanding. The entire church was completed in 7 years!
   We next went back into the city and visited the market which influenced by the Arabs when they occupied Sicily This market was mainly food and vegetables. I was expecting a big building but this was basically an alley. Many locals were eating lunch catered by the local stalls. We ordered something – not sure what. When in Rome (Sicily) eat like the locals! 

Eating Like Sicilians

After lunch our next stop was the Cathedral in Palermo which was built much later and was more in the style of the churches we are use to seeing in Italy. It was not nearly as ornate as Monreale and had been redone over the centuries. The whole alter area had been remodelled. It had about 32 original statures and now has about 4. They are all carved marble and were mounted in other places in the church.

Gelato

We thought we were done but the guide then took us on a walking tour of the main squares of the city and pointed out the importance of each. She continually emphasized the importance of the blending of the many cultures in Sicily. By then, were all starting to fade. Helen our guide could sense that so she bought entire group of 23 some gelato! Nice touch! Then we walked some more! Discovery Tours only use local guides who are very familiar with the area. Out guide provided almost too much information. We were using the small receiver which helped keep us up to what we were seeing.   

     Another great meal tonight.  This was the entree - stuffed chicken. And lots of wine.  More tou ringtomorrow to the Patron saint of Sicily.  Only the morning is conducted with the afternoon free time!