The Cathedral -Basilica, a Roman Catholic church in Cefalù, Sicily, Italy
Image details
Contributor:
Apostolis Giontzis / Alamy Stock PhotoImage ID:
M6E9EHFile size:
75.8 MB (5 MB Compressed download)Releases:
Model - no | Property - noDo I need a release?Dimensions:
6252 x 4240 px | 52.9 x 35.9 cm | 20.8 x 14.1 inches | 300dpiDate taken:
29 December 2015Location:
Cefalù Cathedral, Piazza del Duomo, Cefalù, ?a???µ?, ?ta??aMore information:
The Cathedral-Basilica of Cefalù is a Roman Catholic church in Cefalù, Sicily, Italy. The cathedral, dating from 1131, was commenced in the Norman style, the island of Sicily having been conquered by the Normans in 1091. The fortress-like character of the building, which, seen from a distance, rises as a huge bulk above its medieval town. It also made a powerful statement of the Norman presence. The cathedral is preceded by a large terraced parvise (called turniali), which was originally a cemetery. According to tradition, it was created with earth brought from Jerusalem, having the peculiarity of causing the rapid mummification of the corpses. The famous façade is characterized by the presence of two large Norman towers, with mullioned windows, each surmounted by a small spire added in the 15th century. Each spire is different: one has a square plan surrounded by flame-shaped merlons, the latter symbolizing the Papal authority and the mitre; the other has an octagonal plan and Ghibelline merlons, symbolizing the Royal and the temporal power. The 15th century portico has three arches, the two outer being pointed, supported by four columns, and vaulting ribs. Under the portico is the Porta Regum (Kings' Door), with a finely decorated marble portal flanked by wall paintings. (AAA_6381)