Cloister of Santa Maria La Nuova. Cathedral of Monreale

CLOISTER OF SANTA MARIA LA NUOVA-CATHEDRAL OF MONREALE. HISTORY
The Cloister belonging to the complex of the Benedictine abbey of Santa Maria la Nuova, founded in 1174 on the orders of Norman king William II, is a magnificent example of Byzantine architecture in Sicily.
Square in shape, it is the linchpin of the entire abbey complex built around it. It is cadenced with arches supported by little columns decorated with mosaics with geometric and floral motifs. The wonderful decorations on the capitals depict scenes from the Old and New Testament as well as animal figures and floral motifs.

VISITING THE CLOISTER OF SANTA MARIA LA NUOVA
The itinerary will bring you face to face with all the beauty of this architectural gem as you explore its various sacred spaces and places of power.
Your visit will enable you to explore the Cathedral, to read the Old and New Testaments on the mosaics, to admire the Christ Pantocrator and then to head on to the Chapel of the Crucifix - better known as the Roano Chapel, named after its founder - which houses the Treasure of the Cathedral. Proceeding towards the Parish Museum and the chapter house of St. Placidus which hosted all of the monks, you will finish your tour by strolling along the walkways of the cloister.

Don’t miss the chance to visit the Cathedral’s terraces from where you can enjoy a spectacular view of the city.
Embark on an adventure rich in history and beauty. Ask us how to best organise your visit.