The Golden Temple - a cathedral that takes your breath away
Monreale's main attraction is the UNESCO-listed Cathedral of Santa Maria Nuova. It may look quite inconspicuous on the outside, but once you step inside, you'll be utterly amazed. The entire interior is covered in glittering Byzantine mosaics on a golden background - 6,500 square metres of gold! Most impressive is the majestic mosaic of Christ Pantocrator in the apse - its piercing gaze literally rivets you to the spot.
Also, don't forget to climb up to the cathedral terraces - the view of Palermo, the sea and the olive groves around is simply unforgettable.
The gardens and the monastery: tranquillity in the heart of the city
Right next to the cathedral is the Benedictine monastery with its magnificent Garden of Eden (Chiostro dei Benedettini). It's the perfect place for a moment of tranquillity - in the monastery's ambo (a covered, vaulted corridor) you'll find 228 double columns, each decorated differently, many with delicate mosaics. Every corner is thoughtful and beautiful, and in spring, exotic greenery blooms.
Lesser known corners of Monreale
If you feel like exploring something off the main tourist route, take a stroll through the winding streets of Monreale. Here you'll find small trattorias, old stone houses, pottery shops and, most importantly, a quietness that is often missing in Palermo.
Tip: try stepping out to Piazza Vittorio Emanuele for a beautiful view of the sunset over Palermo Bay.
What to taste
Sicily is a foodie's paradise and Monreale is no exception: be sure to try the Cannoli - crispy tubes filled with sweet ricotta cream. Have them at a small local patisserie. For lunch or dinner, try the Arancini - fried rice balls stuffed with meat or cheese, or the Panelle - chickpea fritters typical of the Palermo area. For dessert, Granita di limone - lemon ice cream, perfect for refreshing in the heat. And don't forget to have a glass of local white wine - like Inzolia or Grillo.
Practical tips
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How to get there: It's a short drive from Palermo. Bus 389P runs from Piazza Indipendenza directly to Monreale. The journey takes about 30 minutes.
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When to go: Spring and autumn are the most beautiful, when everything is in bloom and the temperatures are pleasant. In summer it can be very hot.
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What to take: Comfortable shoes! The streets are cobbled and often uphill.
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Admission: Entrance to the cathedral is free, but there is a small fee to enter the monastery and terraces.
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Bonus: If you want to have a picnic, shop at a local deli - cheese, olives, sun-dried tomatoes - and settle into one of Monreale's shady corners.
