San Giovanni degli Eremiti

There is so much of the citta of Palermo to explore.  Luckily we can on occasion.  Our most recent explorations took us to see the Chiesa di San Giovanni degli Eremiti with its stunning red domes and mesmerizing gardens.

Originally built as an abbey to the Royal Palace around 1132. Later turned into a monastery until 1464 and slowly declined until the 16th century when it became a secular church.

Washington palms and orange trees in the gardens. Also originally there were orange trees in the garden during the 12th century.

The inside is simple.  The towers show an Arabic flavor.

It appears there was probably additional art on the walls but this bit was all that was remaining.

Perhaps a fireplace? The church has gone over numerous changes and restoration mostly recently in the 19th century.

A simple but decorative path from the stones.

This portion of the garden contains kumquat and pomegranate trees.

You can see the Arabic style in the arches.

The well was dry, but a few people tried to make wishes.

I appreciate every bit of the restoration that made it possible for our enjoyment.

Right next to San Giovanni degli Eremiti is a church with a bell tower. For 2 euros we could climb to the top of the tower and overlook San Giovanni and its gardens, plus we had an amazing view of the city of Palermo.

The stairs were narrow with low ceilings thus the hard hats.  I counted and hit my head 11 times on the way back down even with crouching.

Overlook into the gardens and the red domes of San Giovanni degli Eremiti.

Looking west to the Cathedral of Palermo and Mount Pelligrino

Looking northish to the Gulf of Palermo.  How many church towers can you count?

Looking southish to the mountains that surround Palermo on all three sides.  See our snow!

There were 4 bells, they all rang by computer and ring on the quarter hour. We were there at 11:45, Craig asked if we wanted to wait another 15 minutes.

Panoramic view with 3 of the bells

The 2 euros were worth every cent.