Monreale is a wonderful town in Sicily perched a top of a hill. Like many other towns in Europe, there is a square that serves as the heart of the town with a church, restaurants and shops. The area is known for its ceramics so there are plenty of opportunities for special souvenirs as well.
The town contains a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cattedrale di Monreale (the Cathedral), as part of the collection of Arab-Norman churches (9 in all). Aside from the town, this cathedral alone is worth a visit. The frescoes inside are stunning, each section telling a story from the bible. Splurge for the full tour so you can visit the "museum". It is one room that houses some of the most amazing examples of marble artistry I have ever seen. read more