Holidays in Cefalù are also an excellent opportunity to admire the region’s heavenly beaches, deep blue sea, picturesque villages and especially the artistic beauty of the fishing village, full of history and ancient monuments. Built on a headland dominated by an overhanging cliff, the city has preserved its ancient appearance, huddled around the cathedral built by Ruggero II, Count of Sicily.
The architectural wonders of Cefalù, which is listed as one of most beautiful towns in Italy and is part of the Madonie Park, are many and varied. From the Temple of Diana, dating back to the megalithic period, to the Greek, Arab and Norman ruins, including the famous cathedral that dominates the city. The Cathedral is accessed across a beautiful palm-fringed square, climbing a splendid staircase. From the same Cathedral Square you can admire the town hall, the bishopric, the seminary, Palazzo Pirajno, Palazzo Maria and Palazzo Legambi.
The Cathedral of Cefalù, one of the most important monuments of Norman Sicily, was built at the behest of Ruggero I, between 1131 and 1240, as an act of thanksgiving to God after surviving a shipwreck. Next to the Cathedral is the beautiful cloister of Cefalù, consisting of four galleries of slender double columns surmounted by capitals decorated with biblical figures and mythological scenes.
The medieval village is accessed from Via Vittorio Emanuele, which is lined with restaurants and souvenir shops, as well as some of the oldest of the town's monuments. This is also the site of the "medieval wash house", built in 1500 over an older wash house, where the town’s women used to wash clothes. After filling the wash house tanks, the clear and icy cold waters of the River Cefalino plunge directly into the sea, offering peace and refreshment on hot summer days.
Another important stop on a holiday in Cefalù is Corso Ruggero, the main shopping street, and also home to some very elegant nineteenth century buildings. The oldest monument is the Osterio Magno, a beautiful mansion that belonged to Ruggero II and still retains some of its original Norman style appearance. There are also many churches, nestled between one building and another, and perfectly recognisable by their highly decorated façades.
An excursion to the Rocca, which offers a breathtaking view and includes the remains of the ancient Greek colony of Kephaloidion, is also a must. At top of the Rocca are the remains of Cefalù Castle, dating from the 13th-14th centuries, with a rectangular plan.
This region has so much to offer: natural wonders, architectural masterpieces and places of historical, artistic and cultural value. Don’t waste time: check out our holiday packages to Cefalù today and get ready for a brand new, unforgettable adventure!
