Palaces of Palermo (Self Guided), Palermo

For centuries, Sicilian capital Palermo has been a focal point for the construction of noble dwellings and palaces. The latter were and still are a fine manifestation of the historical life in the region. They are a few hundred of them still in place, ranging chronologically from the medieval period to the first decades of the 20th century, and comprising an impressive collection of architectural styles: Arab-Norman, Gothic-Catalan, Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, Neoclassical, Neo-Gothic, Eclectic, Art Nouveau, Rationalist, etc.

Some of these buildings, whilst historical and architectural wonders as such, listed by UNESCO as World Heritage, are still private residences. Others have become museums or places of public gatherings and art, or municipal headquarters. Nonetheless, the story of each of them is a terrific visual behind Palermo's rich cultural past – an urban melting pot, quite diverse and often conflicting.

Here are some of the palatial wonders of Palermo, sumptuous and opulent, full of works of art and testimonies of important cultural value, fit to leave anyone impressed:

Palazzo dei Normanni – an 11th-century Norman royal residence built over the remnants of Punic settlement and Arab castle;

Palazzo Arcivescovile – a 15th-century Archbishop's Palace; home to the Diocesan Museum of Palermo;

Palazzo delle Aquile (Palace of the Eagles) – seat of the Mayor and other municipal offices; built between 1463 and 1478;

Palazzo Mirto (Mirto Palace) – the fabulous former property of the Filangieri, one of the most important Norman families; lavishly furnished with Murano chandeliers, porcelain, tapestries, majolica and more;

Palazzo Chiaramonte-Steri (Chiaramonte-Steri Palace) – grand 14th-century residence of Manfredi III Chiaramonte, a powerful Sicilian lord, as well as the seat of the Inquisition tribunal from 1600 to 1782.

For a closer acquaintance with these and other of palaces of Palermo ready to share their intriguing stories, embark on this self-guided walk.