The Cathedral of Cefalù

The Cathedral (entitled to the Holy Saviour) was founded in 1130 by Roger II who, according to legend, had vowed to build it if he had saved himself from a terrible storm that had hit his ship traveling to Palermo. The fury of the elements threw him on the beach of Cefalù, where the king placed the first stone of the imposing construction.

It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the world, a perfect example of the southern Romanesque style. The façade is strongly characterized by the two corner towers, added in 1240, whose massive bulk is lightened by single and double windows.

In 1472 an airy portico with triple arches was added. The interior has three naves, divided by two rows of marble columns on which rest seven arches. The ceiling of the central nave is painted wood and is an important example of Islamic art in Sicily.
Apse, cruise and adjacent walls are decorated with mosaics that make up a magnificent Christ Pantocrator, a perfect example of pure Byzantine style and work, perhaps the most sublime representation.