Panoramic Overview

Record-breaking Mosaics in the Monument of William II

Overlooking the small Piazza Guglielmo II, in the village of Monreale, stands the majestic Cathedral, an undisputed gem of Arab-Norman art. According to legend, it was the Madonna, who appeared in a dream to William II, that revealed to the king that a treasure would be found where he was sleeping, and instructed him to use it to build a church in her honor.

The construction of the Monreale Cathedral, which also includes the Convent and the Royal Palace, began in 1174. Since 2015, it has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage list.

The exterior is characterized by pointed arches, a play of volumes, the austere tuff towers framing the white portico, and the vibrant decoration of the apses. But the true wonder lies inside: the three naves are entirely covered with enormous mosaics on golden backgrounds. This is the largest mosaic decoration in Italy, second in the world only to that of the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul: over 6,000 square meters of glass and stone tesserae.

The real highlight of the monument is the imposing Christ Pantocrator that decorates the central apse, seemingly blessing the faithful. Raise your eyes and prepare to be left breathless. Furthermore, if you move along the nave from right to left and vice versa, it will seem as though Christ's gaze follows you. A visit to the entire complex is highly recommended.