In 1072, after conquering England's Saxons, the Normans seized control of Sicily. They chose Palermo as their county capital on Punic remnants in the old city’s heart and constructed a castle atop them. Originally an Arab stronghold, it was rebuilt by the Emir to serve as the Norman monarchs' royal residence.

Over time, this palace transformed into interconnected structures linked by arcades within gardens, serving both residential and administrative purposes. In 1132, King Roger II commissioned the stunning Palatine Chapel, completed in 1140 for his personal use. This three-story basilica showcases Sicily's Arab-Norman-Byzantine architecture from the 12th century with Byzantine mosaics adorning its dome, transept, and apse.

Features of the Complex

The Palazzo Dei Normanni features two courtyards: Maqueda Courtyard and the Fountain Courtyard. Each has three levels adorned with Renaissance loggias and stairs. The Pisan Tower and Treasure Tower are remnants of the original four towers.

• UNESCO recognizes both the Palatine Chapel and Norman Palace as World Heritage Sites.

The Royal Apartments, typically closed during parliamentary sessions, open to visitors when not in use. In contrast, lawmakers meet every Tuesday through Thursday in the Salone d'Ercole, notable for its 19th-century murals of Hercules’ twelve labors. The Cappella Palatina stands out as a blend of Latin, Byzantine, and Islamic styles.