Castello dell'Uscibene, Palace in Altarello di Baida neighborhood, Palermo, Italy.
Description
The Castello dell'Uscibene features a two-level structure built on sloped terrain, with the lower level containing a central iwan covered by cross vaults and decorated with Islamic muqarnas and honeycombed niches.
History
Built during the 12th century under Roger II's reign, this palace served as one of the Norman royal pleasure residences alongside Cuba Sottana, Cuba Soprana, Maredolce, and Zisa for relaxation during warm seasons.
Culture
The palace represents a fusion of Arab-Norman architectural influences, featuring Islamic decorative elements like muqarnas, pointed arches, and geometric patterns integrated with Norman construction techniques and design principles.
Practical
Currently in a state of abandonment and deterioration, the palace remains surrounded by private residences built in the 1960s and requires urgent consolidation work to preserve its historical testimonies.
Did you know?
The palace contains elaborate hydraulic systems similar to those found in Maredolce and Zisa, utilizing water channels to cool interior spaces and feed fountains throughout the complex.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Palermo).
Zisa Palace
1.6 km
Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalú and Monreale
2.2 km
Catacombe dei Cappuccini
1.1 km
Cuba Palace
1.2 kmQanat
499 m
Zisa Palace
1.6 km
Cantieri Culturali alla Zisa
1.7 km
Cimitero dei Cappuccini
1.1 km
Walls of Palermo
2.1 km
Albergo Delle Povere
1.6 km
Villa Napoli
519 m
Parco d'Orléans
2.1 km
Cubula
755 m
Santa Maria della Pace
1.1 km
Villa Malfitano Whitaker
2.2 km
Madonna dei Rimedi
1.9 km
Museo dell'Islam
1.6 km
Palermo Punic necropolis
1.5 km
Santissima Trinità alla Zisa
1.6 km
Giardino della Zisa
1.7 km
Museum of Engines and Mechanisms
1.7 km
Fontana dei due Draghi
1.6 km
Museo Storico dei Motori e dei Meccanismi
1.7 km
Villino Florio
2 km
Royal Palace and Palatine Chapel
2.2 km
Camera dello scirocco
412 m
Fico magnolioide
2.1 km
Yucca
2.1 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes