"Monreale is the swan-song of the art of the Norman Age." So begins my book about the Cathedral of Monreale near Palermo, Sicily. It was one of the last places I visited in 2006 during my month-long stay in this most marvelous country.
Monreale was the brainchild of William II (1153 - 1189), the last of the great Norman Kings of Sicily. Apparently, one day while hunting in his park, the King fell asleep and was visited in his dreams by a lady (the Madonna). She indicated to him the place where his father's treasure was hidden and later, the King did unearth it. In gratitude, he decided to erect a temple dedicated to the Virgin Mary on Monte Reale. However, King William died before seeing the cathedral completed. In 1267, a century after the commencement of work, the church was solemnly consecrated by an envoy of Pope Clement IV. The interior of the cathedral is a masterpiece of late Romanesque architecture and consists of three aisles terminating in a transept and three apses. An immense mosaic tapestry covers the greater part of the walls. There are 18 antique granite columns and one in cipolin marble. The marble tombs of William I and William II are situated in the right wing of the transept.
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While visiting Monreale, I sat transfixed in the main chapel. Everywhere you look - up, down, left, right, straight ahead and behind - you will see the most magnificent architecture and artwork! Mosaics, sculptures, bronze leafs, tapestries, arches with decorative motifs. We stayed more than half day, wandering both inside and outside along the cloisters. There are several portals and smaller cathedrals inside the main structure and we were awed by the majesty of the art. The artwork describes the story of the Christian Bible from creation to the miracles of Jesus Christ. There is literally far too much to describe in this little post, but trust me in saying that it is definitely a major must-see if you are ever in Sicily! Below is a confessional, a statue of King William offering the cathedral to the Virgin Mary, and a photo of the main chapel.
25 comments:
You have traveled the world! I have only been out of the U.S. into Mexico.
now THAT is a cathedral!
impressive tale.
ROG, ABC Wednesday team
Oh, I agree with Roger! That is indeed a great and very impressive cathedral and fascinating history! Terrific post for the M Day, Leslie! Have a wonderful day!
Sylvia
ABC Team
Interesting history and beautiful images.
It is a magnificent building - just to sit quietly inside it must be very calming.
What a magnificent cathedral Leslie. Great photos and a perfect choice for the letter M.
I love those walls! Beautiful cathedral.
Wow. I mean, wow!
Very impressive cathedral indeed. Breathtaking.
What a wonderful place to visit and such great stories. I enjoyed your M post very MUCH!
What an absolutely gorgeous cathedral! You could spend days there I am sure! Great post!
Wonderful photos and perfect memories. A marvelous post!
Thank you for sharing such great beauty, Leslie.
I love the main shot of the interior which shows the murals so well. What a peaceful place.
I always wonder where they got the money in the old times to build these magnificent buildings.
Last week, I came to your book blog. Have you finished the book?
Beautiful and fascinating post for M.
What a cathedral!
ABC Wed: M
This catedral must have been so inspiring to experience! What an atmosphere laden with style, grandeur and history! Stunning photos!
Oh my, what wonderfully magnificent photos. Love traveling around with you. You are a great tour guide.
Wow Leslie - some building! A great idea for ABC Wednesday - I am enjoying your travels.
Denise x
You have interesting pictures and post today. thanks for sharing
I am always stunned by the task that faced the masons, builders and craftsmen of early decades and the way they succeeded so amazingly with their creations. This is a wonderful example.
Wow, the places you have been! Thanks for taking us along (smile).
A great reportage in this post, very well elaborated, congratulations, and I love the last picture!
Léia
lovely reminder ..
It is always good to open one's mind and learn something new.
enjoyed your M take.
smiles.
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