The Church of San Giovanni degli Eremiti is one of Palermo’s most recognisable landmarks, its five red domes rising above palms and rooftops near the Norman Palace. Founded under King Roger II in the 12th century, the former monastic church is now a quiet historic monument rather than a parish church.
Its simple cubic forms, domes and pointed arches reflect the mix of Islamic and Christian traditions that shaped medieval Sicily. San Giovanni degli Eremiti is part of the UNESCO-listed Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalù and Monreale. Inside, the largely unadorned walls draw attention to the building’s geometry; outside, a cloister with paired columns sits among lush greenery.
The garden is a lovely place to photograph the domes and take a break from Palermo’s busy streets. Allow around an hour, and combine your visit with the nearby Norman Palace and Palatine Chapel. Go early for softer light and cooler temperatures, wear comfortable shoes for uneven surfaces, and check current opening hours and access arrangements before setting out, as restoration work can affect visits.