Wednesday, May 10
Sicily is a mix of cultures—Greek, Roman, Norman, Byzantine, Spanish and more. We’re still trying to understand their complex history. This cultural stew is represented in Monreale Cathedral, which has always been Roman Catholic, but welcomes Byzantine and Arab influences. Sicily was proud of its independence and welcomed Jews, Muslims and Orthodox in a time when Rome was running crusades. This was built in the late 12th century in just a few years using Arab craftsmen who knew mosaics. The interior is covered in intricate mosaics, including 200 lbs of 24 karat gold leaf. Around the walls are mosaics telling various Bible stories.
After we spent the morning in Monreale, about an hour outside of Palermo, we returned to Palermo and visited the Ballaro marketplace. We enjoyed the sights and the vendors announcing their wares, more Arab bazaar than European market. Grabbed lunch there, some mysterious but tasty local specialty.
Leisurely dinner in a restuarant near the hotel. Fish, pasta, greens and veggies, ending with a refresing sorbetto.