Palerme

Palermo, called Palerme in French, is the capital of the Italian region of Sicily and of the Metropolitan City of Palermo. It lies on the north-west coast of the island, facing the Tyrrhenian Sea, and is a major port and administrative center with a long history as a crossroads of Mediterranean civilizations.

Historically, the site has been inhabited since antiquity, originally known to the Greeks as Panormus, meaning "all port." It later passed through Phoenician, Carthaginian, Roman, Byzantine, Arab and Norman rule, growing as a cultural and commercial hub of the Kingdom of Sicily. In the late Middle Ages it remained a capital of royal power and learning.

Palermo contains notable architectural sites from different periods. The Palatine Chapel in the Norman Palace, the Cathedral of Palermo, and the Church of La Martorana symbolize Arab-Norman fusion. The historic center also includes Quattro Canti, Fontana Pretoria, and the Teatro Massimo. These ensembles are part of the UNESCO World Heritage listing "Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalù."

Palermo is known for its markets, including Ballarò and Capo, which offer street foods such as arancine, panelle and cannoli, reflecting a long culinary tradition. The local economy centers on services, trade, education and tourism. The University of Palermo is a major academic institution.

Palermo has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. The city is served by Falcone-Borsellino Airport and a port with both passenger and freight facilities, and it is connected to the Italian road network by major highways.