Tour Sollazzi in 500
SECRET TOURIST ITINERARY OF THE NORMAN KINGS' RESIDENCES IN PALERMO CALLED SOLLAZZI
Welcome to Palermo, a city rich in history, culture, and hidden wonders. Our vacation home, I Sollazzi, is a tribute to the ancient Norman royal residences known as Sollazzi Regis. These splendid palaces were the summer retreats and hunting lodges of the Norman kings, scattered among the hills and gardens of the city. We have dedicated each of the six rooms in our home to one of these magnificent residences, recreating the atmosphere and charm that once characterized these royal abodes.
We invite you to embark on a unique and fascinating itinerary that will take you to discover a lesser-known side of Palermo. Following in the footsteps of the Norman kings, you will visit the sites that inspired the creation of our rooms, immersing yourself in the history of the city. This journey will lead you through majestic palaces like La Zisa and La Cuba, and mysterious places like Lo Scibene and La Favara.
This is not just a simple tourist tour, but an immersive experience that will allow you to relive the magnificence of a bygone era, connecting each place to the modern comforts of our rooms. Discover with us the secrets of the Sollazzi Regis and let yourself be transported on a historical adventure that will make your stay in Palermo truly unforgettable. This almost unknown itinerary offers a rich cultural experience and a deep connection with the Norman roots of the city. Come and discover the hidden soul of Palermo through I Sollazzi.
Itinerary
step
by step
You can do this route on foot or with the 500 that we put at your disposal with a driver (paid service)
Through the “Ti Meriti Tempo” association, you can enjoy a unique experience aboard a vintage Fiat 500. This drive will allow you to explore the same historic places but with the charm of an iconic car, a symbol of the Italian Dolce Vita. For information on costs and to book this experience, we invite you to speak directly with the Host or ask for information on-site.
Note: This itinerary is not guided by professional tour guides. It is not a tourist tour but an autonomous experience or accompanied by the Host, designed to offer a journey into the past through the Sollazzi Regis of Palermo, a little-known place to most tourists who visit Palermo.
Itinerary: Discovering the Sollazzi Regis of Palermo
- Departure from I Sollazzi (Corso Calatafimi 277, Palermo)
- Recommended time: 9:00 AM
- Residence of La Cuba
- Address: Corso Calatafimi, 100, 90129 Palermo PA
- Distance from I Sollazzi: 80 meters | Walking time: 1 minute
- Description: Built in 1180 by William II, the Castello della Cuba was a prominent resting place of the Norman rulers. The villa, located in the ancient Genoardo Park, stands as a perfect example of Fatimid architecture in Sicily. Originally surrounded by a large pond, it provided a refuge from the scorching Sicilian summers (Balarm.it).
- Residence of Zisa
- Address: Piazza Guglielmo il Buono, 90135 Palermo PA
- Distance from La Cuba: 2.1 km | Walking time: 21 minutes
- Description: Built between 1165 and 1180, the Castello della Zisa owes its name to the Arabic “Al Aziz,” which means “The Glorious.” This fascinating palace served as a venue for relaxation and luxury for the Norman aristocracy. Recently restored, the castle and its gardens remain one of the finest examples of Arab-Norman architecture in Sicily (Balarm.it).
- Palace of Lo Scibene (Castle of Uscibene)
- Address: Via delle Croci, 90129 Palermo PA
- Distance from La Zisa: 2.3 km | Walking time: 34 minutes
- Description: The Palazzo dello Scibene, also known as Castello dell’Uscibene, is one of the most ancient noble residences in Palermo, probably dating back to Roger II’s reign. It showcases the typical architectural elements of the Arab-Norman era, including “iwans” and cross vaults. Although the palace is in a state of ruin, its original structure continues to fascinate (Balarm.it).
- Tower Alfaina (Napoli Villa)
- Address: Via Michele Titone, 3, 90129 Palermo PA
- Distance from Lo Scibene: 800 meters | Walking time: 11 minutes
- Description: Originally a Norman tower, the Villa di Napoli is situated in the ancient Genoardo Park. The villa was later converted into a stately home in the 17th century. The villa still retains part of the masonry of the Cuba Soprana and a stunning garden, which has been recently restored (Balarm.it).
- Residence of Favara (Maredolce)
- Address: Via Emiro Giafar, 90124 Palermo PA
- Distance: 6.4 km | Walking time: 1 hour and 27 minutes (or 15 minutes by taxi or Fiat 500)
- Description: The Castello di Maredolce, located in the Favara Park, was the private dwelling of the Kalbite emir Ja’far II. The castle, which was later expanded by the Normans, was surrounded by a vast artificial lake and lush gardens. Today it is one of the rare examples of Islamic architecture in Sicily (Balarm.it).
- Palace of Altofonte
- Address: Via Altofonte, 90129 Palermo PA
- Distance from La Favara: 11.3 km | Walking time: 2 hours and 56 minutes (walking is not recommended unless you have plenty of time; you can take a scenic route outside Palermo) (or 20 minutes by taxi or Fiat 500)
- Description: The Palazzo di Altofonte, surrounded by a panoramic view, was the hunting seat of the Norman kings. The palace immersed in nature offers an exclusive experience of peace and integration with the surrounding environment.
- Return to I Sollazzi
- Distance from Altofonte to I Sollazzi: 10.6 km | Walking time: 2 hours and 20 minutes (or 20 minutes by taxi or Fiat 500)
Tips and Suggestions
- Duration: The entire journey on foot takes around 5-6 hours, depending on your time expenditure in each location and mode of transportation you choose.
- Dress Code: Comfortable walking shoes and appropriate attire for a day of exploration are recommended.
- Hydration: Carry water with you, particularly if you plan to visit all the locations on foot.
- Photography: Ensure you seize the opportunity to capture terrific images of the outstanding architectural details and surroundings you encounter.
- Departure from I Sollazzi (Corso Calatafimi 277, Palermo)
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