Capuchin Catacombs

Explore the ghoulish remains of friars and luminaries at Palermo’s Capuchin Catacombs on a 3-hour sightseeing tour. Wander along dank corridors through a vast human library of mummified bodies. Inaugurated in 1599, when Capuchin monks discovered that their catacombs contained a mysterious preservative that could mummify the dead, the goal of the site is to reflect on the fragility of life and consider the pettiness of worldly goods. Some 8,000 bodies of men and women were ultimately buried in the catacombs, including the mummy of friar Silvestro of Gubbio, the first body to be buried in the catacombs. The corpses are divided into categories, such as friars, virgins, and professors, and often recognizable by their decaying clothing. As you walk through the corridors, you will see ghastly bodies that include the mummified corpse of the painter Velazquez. Emerge from the gruesome catacombs and travel to Monreale, 6 miles (10 kilometers) from Palermo. Here you will swap corpses for gold and marble as you visit the 12th-century Arab-Norman Cathedral, one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in the world. End your tour at the Benedictine Cloister, completed at the turn of the 13th century. Wander around the beautiful garden, surrounded by delicate arches and white marble columns.

Discover Palermo in Unmatched Luxury Step into a world of elegance and exploration with CruiserCar, the world’s first 9-seater Cabriolet. This isn’t just a tour; it’s a personalized journey through Palermo’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture—crafted entirely around your preferences. Your Adventure, Your Way Start at the iconic Palermo Cathedral, where centuries of architectural brilliance come to life. From there: Ascend Monte Pellegrino: Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea, all from the serene heights of this historic mountain. Relax at Mondello Beach: Unwind on pristine white sands, enjoying the crystal-clear waters that make this beach a local favorite. Indulge in Onboard Luxury As you explore, savor the finer things in life with our selection of Prosecco, refreshing drinks, and gourmet snacks—all served onboard as you enjoy the open-air experience of our luxurious Cabriolet. Every detail is designed to elevate your journey, making each moment as pleasurable as possible. Tailored to You Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking to experience Palermo in the most exclusive way, our tour is fully customizable to your interests. Our expert guide will enrich your journey with captivating stories and local legends, turning each stop into a memorable experience. Book Your Exclusive Experience This unique, luxury tour is in high demand, and spots are limited. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Palermo like never before. Secure your place today and embark on an unforgettable journey through one of Italy’s most captivating cities.

Dive into the heart of Sicily with our CruiserCar tour, a meticulously designed experience that blends luxury, history, and the breathtaking landscapes of Palermo and Monreale. Your adventure begins in the vibrant streets of Palermo's historic center, where the past and present merge in a symphony of colors, aromas, and sounds. From the intricate facades of ancient buildings to the bustling local markets, every turn reveals a new layer of the city's rich heritage. As we navigate through the cobblestone lanes, your expert guide will unveil the stories behind Palermo's most iconic landmarks. The majestic Cathedral, a testament to centuries of art and architecture, and the Quattro Canti, where the four historic districts of Palermo meet, are just the beginning. The CruiserCar allows for an intimate exploration, offering unparalleled views and the flexibility to absorb the atmosphere without the constraints of traditional tours. The journey then delves into the mysterious Catacombs, where corridors lined with the silent guardians of Palermo's past offer a unique glimpse into the city's history and cultural traditions. This hidden world beneath the bustling streets provides a stark contrast and a moment of reflection on the cycles of life and legacy. Next, we ascend to Monreale, a treasure perched above Palermo, offering panoramic views that stretch to the sea. The Cathedral of Monreale, famous for its stunning mosaics and intricate gold leaf work, stands as a monument to Norman architecture and the island's diverse cultural influences. Here, amidst the serene beauty and the whispers of history, you'll feel the soul of Sicily. Throughout this journey, the comfort and style of our CruiserCar ensure an experience of unparalleled luxury. With options for 1, 3, or 6-hour tours, you have the flexibility to immerse yourself in the beauty of Sicily at your own pace. Each moment is tailored to provide an intimate encounter with the island's rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. This tour is more than just a sightseeing trip; it's an invitation to experience the essence of Sicily through the eyes of those who know and love it. Join us for an unforgettable adventure where every detail is crafted with passion and every path leads to discovery.

After departing from Cefalù, you will make your way to the village of Monreale. Once there you will begin by visiting its cathedral, whose interior is completely covered with marble and splendid mosaics. You will then visit the cloister of the Benedictines, which are located on the south side of the cathedral. Each side has 26 arches resting on columns, and include narrative cycles from both the Old and New Testaments. Following that, you'll continue your excursion to Palermo, where you will visit the cathedral. It was formerly a mosque in Islamic times, before being converted into a cathedral church by Roberto the Guiscardo after the conquest of Palermo. You'll then wander through the old town along the typical "Capo" market and the Quattro Canti and Pretoria squares. Free time for lunch and leisure will then follow in the famous Piazza Verdi, the square of the Massimo Theatre. In the afternoon, you'll enjoy a panoramic tour by bus for an optional visit to the Capuchin catacombs, before your tour concludes with your return to Cefalù.

Our emotional journey starts from via dei Benedettini n.16, where a bus will accompany visitors throughout the entire itinerary: from the Catacombs of the Capuchins to the Cathedral of Palermo, up to the Cemetery of Sant'Orsola, and then returning to the starting point. With every step between the bones and mummies, we immerse ourselves deeper and deeper into the depths of the mystery, allowing ourselves to be fascinated and disturbed by the silent testimonies of those who have crossed the border between the world of the living and the dead. The Capuchin Catacombs are a unique place in the world, where life and death merge in an atmosphere of eternal silence. As we enter this labyrinth of bones and skulls, a feeling of mystery and wonder envelops us, while the walls tell millenary stories. Among the many tombs that populate the catacombs, there is one that particularly attracts attention: that of little Rosalia Lombardo, known as the "Sleeping Child". His mummy, perfectly preserved despite the fact that more than a hundred years have passed since his death, almost seems to rest in a peaceful sleep, with his eyes closed and his face serene. This enigma of the preservation of Rosalia's body continues to defy modern science, adding another layer of mystery to this sacred and haunting place. The next stop consists of a journey beneath the surface of one of Palermo's most iconic monuments: the Cathedral. We will travel inside the tunnels of the catacombs of this fascinating place; a true treasure chest of history. Under the majestic vaults of the cathedral, we will discover burials that date back to different historical periods, each with its own unique story. During the visit, we will explore the architecture and origins of the cathedral, understanding how this sacred place has evolved over the centuries. Our guide will tell us about conservation techniques and funeral rituals as we delve into the depths of the catacombs. The stories and legends linked to those who rest here will add a further layer of charm and mystery to this experience. Another fundamental stop on our tour is the Sant'Orsola Cemetery. This historic cemetery, less known than the catacombs, is a place full of charm and history, where illustrious people of Palermo rest. Its monumental tombs and commemorative statues offer an insight into Palermo culture and society through the centuries. Inside we can find illustrious figures from Palermo's history, including artists and heroes who fought the mafia such as: Ninni Cassarà, Libero Grassi, Giuseppe Damiani Almeyda, Mario Rutelli, Luigi Natoli and many others. Every corner of the Sant'Orsola Cemetery tells a story, inviting us to reflect on the fragility of life and the permanence of memory.

Do you want to visit these three important monuments of Palermo in a half-day excursion? Choose this tour and you will be able to discover the Cathedral of Monreale, its magnificent mosaics and its splendid Cloister, the mysterious Catacombs of the Capuchins with its famous "mummy", considered the most beautiful in the world and the Church of San Giovanni degli Eremiti, graceful Arab jewel UNESCO site, on a 5.5 hour tour departing from Palermo, together with a local, young and multilingual driver.

Program: Authentic Palermo: First stop is at the Catacombs, you will have about 30 minutes, ask for Massimo for an explanation, very helpful person. We continue further to the center of Palermo from where the free walking tour will begin, after which we will leave you in front of the Palatine Chapel where you can also ticket to the Royal or Norman Palace. Further on, a few hundred meters away, you will find the beautiful Cathedral and then continue through the streets of the center of Palermo where you will still have 3 hours, enough time to visit the points of greatest interest that you will find marked on your map such as: The 4 Canti, the Church of the Martorana, Piazza Pretoria (or Piazza della Vergogna), Palazzo Steri, Teatro Massimo and Politeama and above all the nearby markets that are very characteristic of Palermo such as the Capo, the Vucciria where you can taste typical Sicilian street food. Monreale: Later, at 2:30 pm, you are scheduled to Depart from Piazza Politeama for the magnificent Cathedral of Monreale and on the way you will have a chance to admire other aspects and beautiful places of Palermo. Second is the visit to Monreale, which takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, where you will visit the Cathedral and its magnificent Cloister. Finally, we recommend a good ice cream with brioche at Bar Italia and, before returning, a look from the Belvedere, it has a beautiful view of the whole of Palermo and, if you are lucky, you will be able to see the Aeolian islands as well.