Benedictine Monastery of Monreale

The Monastery of Monreale was built in the Arab-Norman style, which is typical of Sicily.

It has a square shape and consists of elegant cloisters surrounding a central courtyard. The architecture combines elements of the Arab, Byzantine and Norman styles , with beautiful arches, columns and decorations. The Monastery of Monreale was built in the same period as the Cathedral and is an important example of medieval monastic architecture. It testifies to the cultural and religious influences that were present in Sicily during Norman rule. The monastery has served as a religious institution for centuries and has a rich history.

The Monastery of Monreale is known for the beautiful mosaics and capitals that decorate the columns and arched galleries. Each of the 228 columns has a unique capital , richly decorated with detailed sculptures of animals, plants and geometric patterns. The columns are all fluted, some twisted, some straight. They are all inlaid with colored and gilded mosaics, granite, porphyry, all kinds of marble that form small designs of enchanting precision. The capitals are a mishmash of flowers, fruits, all kinds of animal figures... The mosaics on the walls depict stories from the Bible and mythological scenes.

The courtyard garden is filled with lush vegetation, including flowering plants, trees and shrubs.

Willem Vandenameele