Description
Medieval cloisters, a crypt full of preserved bodies, a sanctuary in the rock and a beach: the Monreale, Catacombs and Mondello tour from Palermo fits all four into about five hours, by van with a guide who also drives.
The route begins in Monreale, a town of medieval palaces and cloisters where the first job is simply to walk its streets. Next comes the Capuchin Catacombs, where hundreds of preserved bodies lie, among them little Rosalia Lombardo, who has stayed intact for more than a century. Tickets for the catacombs are covered.
From there the van climbs Monte Pellegrino for a wide look over Palermo, and then you step into the Sanctuary of Santa Rosalia, a church cut into the mountain rock, where pilgrims have come for generations. The last stop is Mondello, the best-known beach on this side of the coast, where the tour finishes with a tasting of Palermo specialties such as pane e panelle or the traditional spleen sandwich.
- Visit to Monreale
- Capuchin Catacombs, entrance ticket included
- Monte Pellegrino and the Sanctuary of Santa Rosalia
- Mondello and a tasting of typical specialties
The tour starts at Teatro Massimo in Piazza Verdi; hotel pickup is possible for pre-formed groups. Drinks and the ticket for Monreale's cathedral are not included. The commentary is in English or Italian.