Cathedral of Cefalù

The Cathedral (Transfiguration of Our Lord) was founded in 1130 by Ruggero II who according to the legend promised to build it if he survived a terrible storm that hit his ship when travelling near Palermo.

The fury of the elements threw him onto the beach of Cefalù, where the king placed the first stone of this impressive building. It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the world, a perfect example of the southern Romanesque style.

The façade is strongly defined by the two angular towers, added in 1240, the massive size of which is lightened by single and double windows. In 1472 an airy portico with triple arches was added.

The interior has three naves, articulated in two rows of marble columns on which seven arches rest. The ceiling of the central nave is in painted wood and is an important example of the Islamic art in Sicily.

The apse, the cross vault and the adjacent walls are decorated with mosaics that are part of a magnificent Christ Pantocrator, a perfect example of pure Byzantine style and workmanship, perhaps the most sublime representation.