Palermo (Sicily)

Founded in the 8th century by the Phoenicians around a natural harbour, Palermo has spent much of its history being conquered and re-conquered by various other peoples and countries. Its excellent location was largely responsible for this. As a result of these invasions the city developed a distinct character with many interesting architectural and historical features. Some of the must-see sights are:

• The cathedral – building commenced in 1185 on the site of an earlier Byzantine church under supervision of the English archbishop of Palermo Walter of the Mill. The building has undergone many changes throughout the centuries and offers an intriguing insight into Palermo’s architectural history.
• The Royal Palace – Largely obscured by later buildings, its impressive interior is worth a visit. Mosaics dating back centuries, large vaulted ceilings, and impressive corridors all combined with some of the battlements near the entrance of the palace invoke the spirit of knights, chivalry, and past grandeur.
• Chinese Villa – this remarkable construction was built in the early 19th century and reflects the rise of ‘Chinese Revival’ style architecture.
• Capuchin Monastery – Shortly after the construction of the building in 1533 the monks began to embalm the bodies of deceased members of the nobility. The bodies would be dressed in their finest clothes and hung on the walls of the monastery where they can be seen today. This tradition continued into the early 20th century with the last person being embalmed in 1920.
• Salinas Archaeological Museum – important finds from Phoenician times through to Saracen times, as well as ancient Greek and Egyptian artefacts.

Palermo is the regional capital of Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, and has more than 200km of coastline. Mondello Beach is a particularly popular beach area that can get very crowded in the summer months, and offers fantastic sea food restaurants. If you fancy a less hectic atmosphere, then Sferracavallo might be a better choice – excellent restaurants, but less crowded.

The island of Sicily is located only 4 kms off Italy’s big toe. Sun drenched, Mediterranean, surrounded by white beaches, scattered with picturesque fishing villages, and lined by modern beach resorts, the island has a lot to offer. Ancient history, modern beach holidays and anything in between are catered for. Seekers of excitement will have all their dreams come true with Mount Etna, Europe’s largest and possibly the second most active volcano on earth. Tourist wishing to visit the volcano are advised to take professional advice regarding weather conditions etc because, although good fun and very impressive, climbing Etna isn’t without danger.

Airport Information

Palermo International Airport, locally known as Falcone Borsellino, is located 30 kms to the west of the city centre. Palermo Airport Customer Services: 091 7020127.

Palermo by car

The airport and city centre are connected via the A29/E90. To get to the city centre, please turn off the motorway at junction “Svincolo Rosario di Salvo”. The journey time between airport and city centre is approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Palermo by bus

Bus 29 from the Prestia e Comandè bus company travels between the airport and Central Station several times a day, but not after midnight. Journey time is approximately 55 minutes, and tickets cost € 4.80.

Palermo by taxi

The taxi rank is located outside the main terminal.

Pre book your door-to-door airport transfers with easyJet’s partner Holiday Taxis. Arrive at your destination in style and enjoy your own personal service.

Palermo by train

A regular shuttle train operates between the airport and Central Station every six minutes between 5.40 and 23.40. Journey time is approximately 55 minutes, and tickets cost €4.50.

Hotels

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