Palermo Cathedral
The
sarcophagus of Frederick II
The
sarcophagus of Frederick II is the most richly decorated; its four lower
supports consist of four finely sculptured porphyry lions sitting on their hind
legs (Romanesque style of southern Italy). The two sloping sides of the lid are
enriched with three medallions each. The two central medallions (on both slopes)
depict Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary respectively. The others depict the
symbols of the four Evangelists. The shorter side of the sarcophagus facing the
aisle is decorated with relief engravings. In the upper gable (triangle) between
the two sloping sides of the lid there is an engraved crown made up of two bands
which crossed over the sovereign's head. Below, on the flat side of the
keel-shaped portion there is an engraved lion's head with a circular handle in
the mouth. 
The
opposite shorter side, facing the interior of the Chapel, is decorated with a
rosette in the triangular gable and with a cross inscribed in a circle on the
face of the keel-shaped portion.
The porphyry sarcophagus of Frederick II also contains the remains of two other historical personages. Built in the 12C for King Roger II, the sarcophagus remained empty for a long time, until it was chosen by Frederick II as his own tomb.
