15 Mar 2023
This was not a visit with any tour company. This was a couple catching a public bus from Palermo up to Monreale Cathedral. An absolutely stunning cathedral from the 12th century which is absolutely extraordinary in its beauty.
Visitors: Please note. The cathedral closes from 12:45 to 2:30 p.m. My big mistake was not buying my tickets then and there but I was so stunned that my companion and I simply turned away in search of a lunch place feeling very disappointed. The real problem was that the staff were so rude in giving this information. I certainly accept that it was my mistake in not checking the opening hours more closely but I am surprised that a UNESCO site closes for an hour and three quarters in the middle of the day.
Unfortunately the tone set by the box office staff, whose mood had not improved after lunch seemed to be shared by every staff member. At each check point the staff were surly and downright unfriendly.
This is a simply beautiful cathedral. Yes there were lots of visitors - as there should be but please, please,could staff welcome tourists to this truly magnificent place.