Palermo, a city of contrasts founded by the Phoenicians

During my cruise around the western Mediterranean, I also visited the largest island in this area, Sicily, where Palermo is located, the largest city and the fifth largest in Italy.

I was really looking forward to this trip because of its rich history, since Palermo was founded as early as 734 BC when it was established by the Phoenicians.

The entire old part of the city of Palermo is a tourist attraction, especially considering that it has preserved the features of many former conquerors and inhabitants including Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans and Spaniards.

I first decided to take a ride on the panoramic tourist bus which was already waiting for me in the port and with which you can ride all day for 10 euros if you wish.

Palermo, tourist bus, Photo: Adria fun

It was a good decision because in a short time I managed to see some sights that I would not have had time to visit during the short stay in the port. For example this local market full of fresh fruit and vegetables.

Palermo, market, Photo: Adria fun

A major problem of the city is the developed crime and the activity of the well known Sicilian mafia which I did not get the chance to encounter since we moved only through the city center but I did manage to see the monument to the victims of the mafia located in the port.

Palermo, mafia victims monument, Photo: Adria fun

The most touristy part of the city center which has almost 700000 inhabitants is Vittorio Emanulle Street at the beginning of which the city gate Porto Nuova is located. Next to this beautiful gate stands the Norman Palace from the ninth century with a museum.

From here towards the port I decided to go on foot so I could better soak in the soul of the city and its inhabitants. The day was beautiful the crowd not too big and I was in an excellent mood for walking. Right at the start I visited a lovely small park full of Mediterranean vegetation.

Palermo, Villa Bonanino, Photo: Adria fun

The Roman Catholic Cathedral of the city was the next thing I came across. This impressive building constructed in 1185 is adorned with various styles created during different historical additions changes and renovations and for some time it was even converted into a mosque. You definitely must visit it if your journey brings you to Palermo.

The entire Vittorio Emanulle Street is full of cafés and restaurants and is tidy which cannot be said for the whole city because I also saw dirt and neglected facades.

Still I liked this decoration above the street so I captured it with my camera.

Palermo, city center, Photo: Adria fun

On the nearby Piazza Bologni there is also a statue of King Charles V from 1631 who stayed on the island and in Palermo and ordered the construction of the previously mentioned Porto Nuova.

Historians say that this statue was made in the style of Roman emperors and legend says that the outstretched hand with five fingers represents a death sentence for five rebels.

Palermo, Piazza Bologni with the statue of Charles V, Photo: Adria fun

I wanted to visit the nearby Pretoria Fountain which was unfortunately under renovation but I somehow managed to take this photo. The fountain looks wonderful in the pictures I have seen and I was sorry that I could not experience it in its full glory.

Palermo, Pretoria Fountain, Photo: Adria fun

The time to return to the port passed quickly so there was no time to visit other sights. Still I managed to photograph the port with boats and the interesting fort Castello a mare which was originally built in the ninth century by the Arabs and later received its present form during the time of the Normans and served to protect the port until the twentieth century.

My journey took me to other places with the hope that I will return to Sicily and explore it better which I warmly recommend to you as well.