Overview
Triumph of Arab-Norman Art
The undisputed symbol of the city, the Cathedral of Cefalù is a monument of extraordinary beauty that has stood the test of time and is a precious testimony to the Arab-Norman influence on Sicily. At the heart of the historic town – a stone’s throw from the sea – it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015.
The building was commissioned by the first king of Sicily, Ruggero II, in 1131. Legend says it was built as a symbol of gratitude after the ruler escaped death during a shipwreck.
The façade of the cathedral is framed by two towers, giving the church the impenetrable appearance of a fortress. Their decoration is highly symbolic: one, decorated with flames, symbolises the power of the Church, while the second, with Ghibelline battlements, represents the temporal power of the king.
The interior is shaped like a Latin cross, divided into three naves supported by imposing granite columns. The apse is decorated with splendid Byzantine-inspired golden mosaics and dominated by the depiction of Christ Pantocrator.
