Cefalu is a pretty coastal town in northern Sicily, just 70 kilometres from Palermo. It has a sandy beach, making a very popular holiday destination. There was a howling wind the day we arrived in spring, keeping most people off the beach.
The wind whipped up the sea.
A few hearty souls braved the water.
The area has always been known for fishing and the activity continues today. A windy day is a good time to repair nets.
Like most of Sicily, Cefalu has a rich history. Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs and Normans all made Cefalu their home at some stage. The most obvious reminder of the Norman time is the magnificent cathedral. It was begun in 1131 and took over 100 years to complete.
Its interior boasts stunning mosaics including Christ Pantocrator in gleaming gold.
There is a beautiful cloister beside the church.
The statues in front of the church are looking a bit worn.
There are other churches hidden among the narrow streets. Cefalu is a treasure trove of wonderful old buildings.
The streets are also lined with interesting shops, cafes and restaurants…you won’t go hungry in Cefalu.
We had a delicious dinner at Locanda del Marinaio. There was a stylish outdoor eating area, but the cool air drove us inside.
Looming over the town is La Rocca, a rocky outcrop where the ruins of the Norman Castle and the Temple of Diana remain. The ruin is visible above the old hotel.
We didn’t have time to climb the Salita Saraceno to the top…next time.
Scenes from my favourite Italian film, Cinema Paradiso, were filmed in Cefalu. I will watch it again to see if I recognise the streets.
Cefalu is a jumping off point for the Aeolian Islands, another reason to return. It is a lively, friendly and interesting town. I hope the wind stays away when you visit.
Cefalu seems to have everything – ancient ruins, beautiful cathedral, beach, lovely shopping streets and delicious food, no wonder it was chosen for a film location. I loved Cinema Paradiso too – and the music.
By: Jan on August 23, 2016
at 10:24 pm
Cefalu is a beautiful place, we will return.
By: Debra Kolkka on August 24, 2016
at 8:43 am
Quaint town. I remember the waves crashing into the restaurant windows on a January visit. Beautiful cathedral – love the gold mosaics.
By: karenincalabria on August 24, 2016
at 12:42 am
It might be a bit bleak in mid winter, but lovely just the same.
By: Debra Kolkka on August 24, 2016
at 8:43 am
Great memories Debra! We enjoyed a lovely day at Cefalu on our trip to Sicily – compete with a swim on a glorious hot sunny day!
By: Pauline on August 24, 2016
at 12:49 am
Lucky you. The wind would have blown us away.
By: Debra Kolkka on August 24, 2016
at 8:44 am
That’s about the only kind of day my husband likes the beach – when everyone else finds it too cold. What a beautiful place!
By: sheilasunshine on August 24, 2016
at 4:38 am
He would have been blown to the mainland the day we were there.
By: Debra Kolkka on August 24, 2016
at 8:44 am
It is a beautiful place and the Norman cathedral is a real gem.
By: Mulino Dominillo on August 24, 2016
at 6:36 am
The cathedral is stunning, like so many in Sicily.
By: Debra Kolkka on August 24, 2016
at 8:45 am
[…] via Cheerful Cefalu — Bagni di Lucca and Beyond […]
By: Cheerful Cefalu — Bagni di Lucca and Beyond | Art History blog on August 24, 2016
at 9:17 am
I loved that movie too!
By: Mallee Stanley on August 24, 2016
at 2:48 pm
When I saw it the first time it reminded me of the little village I used to live in. I have watched it several times since and I always delights me.
By: Debra Kolkka on August 25, 2016
at 6:12 am
Quaint town. Reminds me of monreale sans the beach!
By: Ishita on August 25, 2016
at 4:11 am
The fierce wind blew us out of Monreale and into Cefalu.
By: Debra Kolkka on August 25, 2016
at 6:13 am
[…] Cefalu on the northern coast was another place in Sicily we really liked even though a fierce wind kept us off the beach and any other exposed place. Fortunately the narrow streets offered protection. […]
By: 2016 travels | Bagni di Lucca and Beyond on December 27, 2016
at 7:55 am
[…] чрез Радостен Чефалу – Бани ди Лука и Отвъд […]
By: GOOD LUCK on February 5, 2017
at 7:17 am