Capuchin Catacombs
by matcrazy1
The process of mummification was initially done by laying the bodies in rooms located within the Catacombs. The bodies would undergo a process of dehydration. Once this process was complete they would wash the bodies in vinegar. In addition to the process of dehydration some of the bodies were embalmed to help preserve their appearance and some were enclosed in sealed glass. Once the mummies were ready they would be clothed and placed on the walls. The Catacombs are divided into groups. There is a section for priests & monks, men, women, children and professionals. All in all some 8000 individuals fill the catacombs, which are open to the public.
.
Due to a law by the Italian government in 1881 the Catacombs were no longer permitted to continue this process of mummification. Even though law prohibited the Convent from adding mummies to the Catacombs it wasn't until 1920 that the last body would be officially interred in the Catacomb. With special permission from the Italian government the body of a 2-year-old child named Rosalia Lombardo was added. What amazed me the most about the addition of Rosalia is how well preserved her body is.
. Capuchin Catacombs.
Don't be afraid of leaving the...
by marktbike
Don't be afraid of leaving the main streets to dive into the maze of minor alleys in the historical areas of the city. You'll be rewarded with incredible sceneries coming directly from another era. Fountains emerging from nowhere, old palaces ruined after the bombings of World War II, people sitting out of their door to enjoy the fresh air of the evening. Forget the mafia problem, it won't affect you. Only beware of the few pickpocketers and, for the women, don't feel bothered by the way Sicilian guys will stare at you with a smile...
Il mercato Ballaro
by Superhans
The markets of Palermo are cramed full of all the fruit, vegtables, fresh fish, cheese and oils. All of the best quality and very cheap prices. It's also a generally friendly atmosphere and a great place to start the day, get all the smells in your lungs as early as you can.
San Domenico
by hquittner
San Domenico stands at the back of a large Piazza which has at its center a tall religious column.It is a very large17C church with an 18C Baroque facade. Many prominent Palermans are buried here. You may not spend much time inside, but if you go to the right (in the picture) you will be in the Vucciria. If you go straight ahead to the rt. and then left around the apse you will be on the narrow via Bambinai on your way to the famous Oratorios that Serpotta decorated. One or both may be open. When you get there a sign will tell you.
HugoRamon's Study Visit to Palermo
by HugoRamon
I got a bursary for an ARION Study Visit to Palermo. Most interesting! Visit to schools, lectures by eminent speakers, eg. the lecture by Prof. dr C. Punzo of the Provveditorato agli Studi di Palermo about the future of Sicily and the importance of the environment. Visits to important historic places and buildings: the Norman Palace, the Palatine Chapel, the Duomo of Monreale, and lots of churches.
So I decided to come back with a lot of my friends. From 3 until 12 April 2001 I'll be back in Palermo and Catania with 43 members of the AEDE Belgium (Association Européenne des Enseignants - European teachers Association)
Sign in with Facebook
The Palazzo dei Normanni
Greek and Roman mosaics
sun is setting
Hotel Jolly
