Castello della Zisa (Zisa Castle), Palermo

The Zisa Castle (Castello della Zisa), situated in the western part of Palermo, is a significant architectural relic from the 12th century, reflecting the cultural synthesis of Norman and Arab craftsmanship under the reign of the Norman kings. The construction of this grand hunting lodge and summer palace began around 1165, initiated by Arab craftsmen under the rule of King William I of Sicily and completed in 1189 during the rule of his successor, William II. Its name, "Zisa," comes from the Arabic term al-Azīz, meaning "dear" or "splendid," emphasizing its grandeur.

The Zisa Castle, originally part of the "Earthly Paradise" royal hunting estate alongside Cuba Sottana, Cuba Soprana, and Uscibene palace, was surrounded by vast gardens, now lost. By the 15th century, the Zisa had deteriorated and changed ownership multiple times. In 1635, Giovanni de Sandoval, a relative of the Sicilian Viceroy, acquired it, and it remained privately owned until the early 19th century. Significant decline by the 1950s led to restorations starting in the 1990s by the Region of Sicily, culminating in its 2015 designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, part of the Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalù and Monreale.

Architecturally, the Zisa is distinguished by its Islamic design elements such as muqarnas and vaulted niches. The original structure has undergone several modifications over the centuries, including the addition of merlons in the 14th century and major renovations in the 17th century by Giovanni di Sandoval e Platamone, who added new rooms and external windows. Notably, the castle's design includes an innovative air conditioning system, inspired by ancient Egyptian and Mesopotamian techniques, which allowed airflow throughout the building, a testament to the ingenuity of its architects.

Today, the Zisa Castle is open to the public, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural and historical tapestry of Sicily during the Norman rule. Visitors can explore the restored palace and appreciate both its historical significance and its architectural beauty.