Construction of the Cathedral began in 1131 at the behest of Roger II, the first King of Sicily; the work suffered delays and changes after the King’s death in 1154. It was only in 1267 that the Duomo was solemnly consecrated. The towers, which have survived almost intact in their medieval austerity, are today the purest testimony of Norman architecture, blending elegance and solidity.
At first glance they seem identical, but the two towers hide details that set apart their symbolic meaning and function: the right-hand tower (south) is distinguished by its flame-shaped crenellation, symbolising the authority of the Church and spiritual power. The left-hand tower (north) is topped with Ghibelline (swallow-tail) battlements, representing the temporal power of the Crown. In terms of decoration, both are lightened by elegant two-light and single-light windows, and have arrow slits recalling the defensive function typical of fortifications of the time.

Entry to the Duomo is free, while if you want to visit the towers, the cloister or the museum area (visiting hours 10 am to 1 pm and 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm) you need to buy a ticket, choosing one of the itineraries offered on the official website of the Duomo di Cefalù