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Palermo spices up southern Italy. Its historic touch, the cultural venues, the architecture and the local gastronomy draw on hundreds of tourists. Located in northwestern Sicily, this 2700 years old city catches the eye through its proximity to the beautiful Tyrrhenian Sea.

Due to its location, Palermo enjoyed along the years optimum conditions for its inhabitation. First the Phoenicians, then the Romans, the Byzantines and the Arabs gradually ruled the area. In 1130 it becomes capital of the Kingdom of Sicily which subsequently joins the Kingdom of Naples under the title of “The Two Sicilies”.

Italian and Sicilian are the main languages used by the 855 285 inhabitants of the urban area and the 1, 2 million people of the metropolitan sector. The Palermitans share the same space that bears the title of the cultural, economic and touristic capital of the island. Palermo greets tourists with the Mediterranean weather and cuisine. Those attracted to architecture can enjoy unforgettable exploring days of the city’s Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque churches and palaces. Economy is sustained by tourism, services, commerce and agriculture which are supported by the international airport that the city is currently offering.

Arabian craftsmen massively brought their contribution to the local architecture by contributing to the construction of the Zisa Castle in the 12th century. The castle delights the western part of Palermo. Etymologically, the Arab term “al- Aziz” (glorious, extraordinary) is responsible for the name. Originally, the edifice was meant to cover a summer residence for the Norman kings who enjoyed a large hunting resort, Genoard (Paradise on Earth), of which the Zisa became part.

The 14th century drew on certain modifications such as the introduction of merlons which was only possible by destroying the Arab inscription from the upper part. This was only the first of many modifications that sacrificed other existing parts and features. In the 17th century, Giovanni di Sandoval starts ruling over the pauper Zisa. Subsequent to this moment the castle is resuscitated by the introduction of a great stair, new external windows and also by the changes that occurred in several rooms.

After the restorations from 1970 and 1980, the Zisa grew as a major turning point in Palermo’s touristic life. Certain rooms showcase a handful of remnants such as Islamic art pieces, Mediterranean artifacts and mosaic decorations. The Fountain Hall makes quite a view, adorned by mosaics and muqarnas (vaults that result from small arches on top of each other). A former pool used to cool down the summer heat while contributing to the original function of the castle: a summer residence.

The castle presents details and features that create a perfect reason for explorations. Not only the castle, but also creative sectors like arts and gastronomy bolster the city’s pulse indulging its visitors in a hallucination of wonderful tastes and sights.