Monreale The Benedectine Cloister
HISTORICAL
OUTLINE
At the apogee of their Mediterranean adventure, the last Altavilla ordered the construction, in the years between 1174-1176, of a Monastery near the church of S. Maria La Nuova for the Benedictine monks, who had been called from a convent in Cava dei Tirreni to take the Christian church and Cenoby in custody. It is considered one of the most important monuments in Europe because of its ancient architectural remains, together with the large dormitory, now partly restored, that stands out for the magnificence and sobriety of its structure.
The most remarkable element is perhaps the Cloister, commissioned by William II to Arab artisans, with its extraordinary elegant forms, its square layout (47 metres per side) and its 228 twin columns and related capitals that support the ogival arches.
The twin columns, alternately decorated with mosaics of different geometrical shapes and the capitals surrounded by arabesques in lava marquetry of different forms, are partly decorated by a great number of biblical scenes, sacred episodes and Christian symbols.
This cloister is considered a masterpiece of Arab-Norman architecture in 13th century Sicily and one of the most beautiful examples of cloister art.
Capital with dedication. King William II holds his regal gift in front of the Virgin with Child. It represents the adjacent cathedral that was dedicated to Santa Maria La Nuova.
