Palermo: The Heart of Sicily

• HelloCiao
  [chow]
• GoodbyeAddio
  [ad-dyoh]
• YesSì
  [see]
• NoNo
  [noh]
• Please/You're welcomePer favore/Prego
  [pair fah-voh-reh/pray-goh]
• Thank youGrazie
  [grah-tsyeh]
• Excuse me/SorryMi scusi/Scusa
  [mee skoo-zee/skoo-sah]
• How are you?Come stai?
  [koh-meh stah-ee]
• Fine. And you?Bene. E tu?
  [beh-neh. eh too]
• Do you speak English?Parli inglese?
  [pahr-lee een-gleh-zeh]
• I don't understandNon capisco
  [non kah-pee-skoh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseVorrei vedere il menù, per favore
  [vohr-ray veh-deh-reh eel meh-noo, pair fah-voh-reh]
• I don't eat meatNon mangio carne
  [non mahn-joh kahr-neh]
• Cheers!Salute!
  [sah-loo-teh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseVorrei pagare, per favore
  [vohr-ray pah-gah-reh, pair fah-voh-reh]

• Help!Aiuto!
  [ah-yoo-toh]
• Go away!Vai via!
  [vy vee-ah]
• Call the Police!Chiama la polizia!
  [kyah-mah lah poh-lee-tsyah]
• Call a doctor!Chiama un dottore!
  [kyah-mah oon doh-toh-reh]
• I'm lostMi sono perso
  [mee soh-noh pehr-soh]
• I'm illMi sento male
  [mee sehn-toh mah-leh]

• I'd like to buy...Vorrei comprare...
  [vohr-ray kohm-prah-reh]
• I'm just lookingSto solo guardando
  [stoh soh-loh gwar-dahn-doh]
• How much is it?Quanto costa?
  [kwahn-toh koh-stah]
• That's too expensiveÈ troppo caro
  [eh troh-poh kah-roh]
• Can you lower the price?Puoi abbassare il prezzo?
  [pwoh-ee ab-bah-sah-reh eel preh-tsoh]

• What time is it?Che ora è?
  [keh oh-rah eh]
• It's one o'clockÈ l'una
  [eh loo-nah]
• Half past (10)Sono le dieci e mezza
  [soh-noh leh dyeh-chee eh meht-sah]
• MorningMattina
  [maht-tee-nah]
• AfternoonPomeriggio
  [poh-meh-ree-joh]
• EveningSera
  [seh-rah]
• YesterdayIeri
  [yeh-ree]
• TodayOggi
  [oh-jee]
• TomorrowDomani
  [doh-mah-nee]
• 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
• 2Due
  [dweh]
• 3Tre
  [treh]
• 4Quattro
  [kwah-troh]
• 5Cinque
  [cheen-kweh]
• 6Sei
  [say]
• 7Sette
  [seht-teh]
• 8Otto
  [oh-toh]
• 9Nove
  [noh-veh]
• 10Dieci
  [dyeh-chee]

• Where's a/the...?Dov'è...?
  [doh-veh]
• What's the address?Qual è l'indirizzo?
  [kwahl eh leen-dee-ree-tsoh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Puoi mostrarmi (sulla mappa)?
  [pwoh-ee moh-stahr-mee soo-lah mahp-pah]
• When's the next (bus)?Quando passa il prossimo (autobus)?
  [kwahn-doh pahs-sah eel prohs-see-moh ow-toh-boos]
• A ticket (to ....)Un biglietto (per ....)
  [oon beel-lyet-toh pair]

Palermo's origins trace back to the 8th century BC when it was established by the Phoenicians. Known as 'Ziz' during this period, the city served as an essential trading post connecting the Western and Eastern Mediterranean. The strategic location of Palermo facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures, laying the groundwork for its diverse and rich heritage.

In 254 BC, during the First Punic War, Palermo fell under Roman control. The city, renamed 'Panormus,' became an integral part of the Roman Empire. It flourished as a crucial port and commercial hub, benefiting from Roman infrastructure, including roads, aqueducts, and public buildings. Roman Palermo saw the construction of grand villas and the establishment of a thriving urban culture.

Following the fall of the Western Roman Empire, Palermo entered a period of Byzantine rule in the 6th century AD. In 831 AD, the city was conquered by the Aghlabids, marking the beginning of a prosperous Arab era. Renamed 'Balarm,' Palermo became the capital of the Emirate of Sicily. The Arabs introduced advanced agricultural practices, new architectural styles, and a vibrant cultural and intellectual life that significantly influenced the city's development.

In 1072, the Normans, led by Roger I, captured Palermo, ending Arab rule. The city became the capital of the newly established Kingdom of Sicily in 1130 under Roger II. This period saw a fusion of Norman, Arab, and Byzantine influences, resulting in a unique architectural and cultural blend. Notable landmarks from this era include the Palermo Cathedral, the Palatine Chapel, and the Zisa Palace, showcasing the city's grandeur and cosmopolitan nature.

The Hohenstaufen dynasty, originating from Germany, took control of Palermo in the 12th century. Under the rule of Frederick II, the city experienced a renaissance of art, science, and literature. Frederick II, known as 'Stupor Mundi' (Wonder of the World), established Palermo as a center of learning and culture. The city's intellectual life flourished, attracting scholars, poets, and artists from across Europe and the Arab world.

Palermo came under Spanish control in 1409, marking the beginning of centuries of foreign domination. The city became part of the Spanish Empire and later the Bourbon Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. Despite the oppressive rule, Palermo remained a significant economic and cultural center. The Spanish and Bourbon periods left their mark on the city's architecture, with the construction of grand palaces, churches, and public buildings that still stand today.

Palermo played a crucial role in the Italian unification movement known as the Risorgimento. In 1860, Giuseppe Garibaldi's Expedition of the Thousand landed in Sicily, leading to the overthrow of the Bourbon rule. Palermo was one of the first major cities to join the Kingdom of Italy. The city's participation in the unification process marked a new chapter in its history, as it became part of a unified and modern Italian state.

During World War II, Palermo suffered significant damage from Allied bombings. The post-war period was marked by extensive reconstruction efforts aimed at restoring the city's infrastructure and historical landmarks. Despite the challenges, Palermo emerged as a resilient city, maintaining its cultural heritage while embracing modernization. The city's post-war recovery contributed to its vibrant urban life and continued importance as a cultural and economic hub in Sicily.

Today, Palermo is a bustling metropolis that reflects its rich historical tapestry. The city's streets are a living museum, showcasing a blend of ancient, medieval, and modern influences. Palermo's vibrant markets, such as Ballarò and Vucciria, offer a glimpse into its diverse cultural heritage. The city's culinary scene, influenced by centuries of foreign rule, is renowned for its unique flavors and traditional dishes. Modern Palermo continues to celebrate its history while evolving as a dynamic and cosmopolitan city.

Palermo is well-connected by air, sea, and land. The main gateway is Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO), located about 35 kilometers west of the city center. The airport offers numerous domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can take a taxi, rental car, or the Prestia e Comandè bus service, which runs frequently to the city center. Palermo is also accessible by ferry from several ports in Italy, including Naples, Cagliari, and Genoa. The central train station, Palermo Centrale, connects the city to other major Italian cities via Trenitalia.

Public transportation in Palermo includes buses and trams operated by AMAT. Tickets can be purchased at newsstands, tobacco shops, or via the AMAT app. Taxis are readily available, but ensure the meter is running or agree on a fare beforehand. For more flexibility, consider renting a scooter or car. The historic center is best explored on foot due to its narrow streets and traffic restrictions. Alternatively, bike rentals are available for those who prefer cycling.

The official currency in Palermo is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city. It’s smart to notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions.

Palermo is generally safe, but like any major city, it has areas where tourists should exercise caution. Be particularly vigilant in crowded areas like markets and public transport to avoid pickpocketing. Neighborhoods such as Ballarò and Vucciria markets are vibrant but can be less safe at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas after dark. Always keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112, the general emergency number for police, fire, and medical services. The main hospital, Ospedale Civico, is well-equipped for serious health issues. Pharmacies are abundant and can provide over-the-counter medications. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor issues, many pharmacists speak English and can offer advice.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid beachwear and overly casual attire in the city. Religion: Do respect local customs. Always cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding. Don’t speak loudly or eat on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a 'Buongiorno' (Good morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good evening). A kiss on each cheek is common among friends. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and wines. Don’t rush your meals; dining is a leisurely activity.

To experience Palermo like a local, visit Mercato di Ballarò or Mercato del Capo for fresh produce, street food, and local goods. Take a passeggiata (evening stroll) along Via Maqueda or Via Vittorio Emanuele. Enjoy a granita or gelato at a local café. For a unique experience, explore the less touristy neighborhoods like Kalsa and Olivella. Don't miss traditional Sicilian treats like arancini, cannoli, and panelle.