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Castello di Maredolce: A Norman Palace with Arab Echoes

Discover Palermo's Castello di Maredolce, a medieval castle blending Arab and Norman architectural styles, set in the tranquil Favara Park.

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Explore Castello di Maredolce, also known as Palazzo della Favara, a medieval castle in Palermo with Arab-Norman architecture. Once a royal residence with an artificial lake, it offers a glimpse into Sicily's diverse cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Castello di Maredolce

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
  • Check the official website or contact the Palermo tourist office for updated information on opening hours, guided tours, and special events.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the castle and its grounds involves some walking.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and picturesque views from the castle.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Palermo Centrale train station, take bus number 226 towards 'Stazione Centrale Lincoln 1'. Get off at the 'S Giovanni Di Dio' stop, which is a 6-minute walk from the Castello di Maredolce. From there, walk along Via S. Giovanni Di Dio, turn right onto Vicolo del Castellaccio, and continue to the castle at number 23/25. A single bus ticket costs approximately €1.40.

  • Taxi

    From Palermo city center, a taxi to Castello di Maredolce typically costs between €15 and €25, depending on traffic and the specific starting point. The journey usually takes around 20-30 minutes. Taxis are readily available throughout the city center.

  • Walking

    If starting from Palermo Cathedral, head south on Via Vittorio Emanuele, turn right onto Via Roma, then left onto Via Cavour. Continue to Piazza Verdi, take Via Maqueda, and turn right onto Vicolo del Castellaccio. Walk straight to Castello di Maredolce at number 23/25. The walk is approximately 6km and will take over an hour.

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Discover more about Castello di Maredolce

Castello di Maredolce, also called Palazzo della Favara, is a medieval castle located in Palermo, Italy, within Favara Park in the Brancaccio neighborhood. This historic site showcases the unique Arab-Norman architectural style that characterizes Sicily. Originally built during the Kalbid rule in Sicily between 998 and 1019, it was significantly expanded by the Norman King Roger II in the 12th century. The castle served as one of the "Solatii Regii," pleasure palaces of the Kings of Sicily. The name "Maredolce" comes from the presence of a large artificial lake, 'sweet sea' in Arabic, that once surrounded the castle, fed by natural springs and used for fishing and recreation. The complex included a fortified structure, a hammam (Islamic bathhouse), and lush gardens designed with water channels and aromatic plants, reflecting Islamic garden principles. Over the centuries, the castle changed ownership and uses. In 1328, King Frederick II of Aragon gave it to the Teutonic Knights, who transformed it into a hospital. Later, it passed to noble families like the Beccadelli di Bologna and the Agraz family, eventually falling into neglect and becoming known as "Castellaccio". In 1992, the Sicilian Region acquired the complex and began restoration efforts in 2007. Today, visitors can explore the castle's architecture and immerse themselves in its rich history, with cultural events and guided tours often available.

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