Audio Guide of Zisa Castle

The castle is open in the regular season from Tuesday to Saturday from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and on Sundays and public holidays until 1:30 PM. It is closed on Mondays. You can get there by public transport (lines 124 or 121 from central Palermo) or by car. Check updated hours on the official website before you go.

General admission costs €6 (2024). Visitors under 18 enter free, and there are discounts for students and EU citizens aged 18-25. The first Sunday of every month is free, but capacity is limited. More details at Sicily Cultural Heritage.

The visit takes about 1 hour. If you explore the tower, the inner courtyards, and the permanent exhibition of Islamic art, allow up to 1 hour 30 minutes. It is ideal to combine it with other nearby monuments for a full morning.

It is a symbol of Sicilian cultural syncretism: built in 1165 under William I of Sicily, it combines Norman architecture with Arab engineering. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site together with other Arab-Norman sites of Palermo.

Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) are best for the mild weather. Arrive early (9:00 AM) to avoid large groups. In summer, avoid the middle of the day because of the heat inside the historic building.

It has an elevator and ramps on the ground floor, but the historic structure may make full access difficult (for example, the tower). Contact them in advance at +39 091 7071409 or check their website for updated accessibility information.

Within a 15-minute walk you will find: Palermo Cathedral (500 m) and the Norman Palace (1 km). Complete your Arab-Norman route with the Church of San Giovanni degli Eremiti (10 minutes by car).

1) Wear comfortable shoes because of the uneven floors, 2) In summer bring water and a hat—only the courtyards have shade, 3) Take photos without flash indoors, 4) Pick up the free map at the entrance with key points explained.