The capital of Italy's picturesque island paradise is equally as stunning as the rest of the entire island itself. Here, you'll get to venture in 12th-century royal tombs, huge neoclassical theaters, and stroll around a 9th-century royal palace. But history and architecture aren't the only things that Palermo has to offer. Explore busy street markets and get lost in its endearing culture that will surely perk up your senses. Download the Palermo Travel Guide and Offline Map now and start your next adventure!
1. Cappella Palatina
Palermo's extraordinary chapel is the city's top tourist attraction. And it's no wonder having been designed by Roger II in 1130. Located on the mid-level of Palazzo dei Normanni's three-tiered loggia, prepare to be awestruck with its glittering gold mosaics, inlaid marble floors, and wooden muqarnas ceiling. The latter is considered a masterpiece Arabic-style honeycomb carving reflecting Norman Sicily's cultural complexity.
2. Teatro Massimo
Can you imagine walking into a palatial neoclassical opera house that took 20 years to complete? Well, imagine no more. At Europe's second-largest opera house located in Palermo, you'll get to visually experience first-hand it richly decorated interiors. And if you're a fan of the Godfather series of movies then you'll be extra thrilled to know that the ending scene of The Godfather: Part III was filmed within its walls.
3. Mercato di Ballarò
What better way to experience the culture of a certain city than to explore its markets? Several blocks southeast of the Palazzo dei Normanni is Palermo's busiest market. It's so busy that you literally it comes alive with its throbbing vibrancy from the early morning to the evenings. Mercato di Ballarò is a fascinating at best and the certainly the epitome of street life. Here you'll find everything you need for cheap, from Chinese products to fresh produce.
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