When Palermo was founded by the Phoenicians in 735 BC, it was given the name of Ziz, meaning flower; and there are few places as deserving of such a name as this enchanting, colorful city.
Palermo spent almost two and a half centuries under Arab rule, from 831 to 1071. The Saracens made it the capital of Sicily and turned it into a major city, leaving their mark on the local culture, language and artistic tastes. When the Normans ousted the Arabs, they constructed buildings and Christian cathedrals with the involvement of Muslim artists, thus creating the wonderfully original Arab-Norman style we can see in a number of splendid monuments that have no equal in the world.
Together with the Cathedrals of Cefalù and Monreale, seven sites in Palermo form part of a UNESCO heritage site known as “Arab-Norman Palermo”: the Royal Palace and Palatine Chapel, Zisa Palace, Palermo Cathedral, the Churches of San Giovanni degli Eremiti, Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio and San Cataldo, and the ancient Admiral’s Bridge.
You’re sure to be enchanted by the fascinating, intricate alleyways of Palermo, where you’ll come upon luxurious, centuries-old noble buildings, abandoned and yet drenched in memories, with facades rich in history, mysterious courtyards and churches from every age.
Don’t miss the lively, fragrant markets in the heart of the Old Town, such as Vucciria, il Capo or Ballarò, which dates back to Arab times. They’re always busy and bursting places with color where you can find all kinds of things: the golden-yellow of the lemons, the glistening silver of fresh fish, the bronze of the olives and the deep coral red of the sun-dried tomatoes.
Because of its mild, pleasant climate, Palermo enjoys a lively nightlife in every season, with the numerous bars and restaurants packed with young people and a vibrant cultural scene.
An interesting fact: the symbol of the city is the Genius of Palermo, a bearded man wearing a crown and with a snake on his lap that seems about to bite him on the chest. There are seven sculptures of the Genius in the city, as well as two paintings and a mosaic. Have fun looking for him!
So, get ready to visit the wonders of this splendid city.
Enjoy your stay!
