The Chapel of the Crucifix in the Duomo of Monreale in Palermo, Sicily

The Duomo of Monreale is renowned for its beauty.  In fact, one might even say it is overwhelming in its beauty. However, what one mainly thinks of when talking about this great cathedral is the Italo-Byzantine art of the main cathedral. However, there are other gems to be found here, coming in this instance from another age, the age of Sicilian baroque, and that is the "cappella del crocifisso" or chapel of the crucifix.

This particular chapel was constructed between 1686-1692 at the behest of Giovanni Roano, the Spanish born archbishop of Monreale.  

Statue of Archbishop Giovanni Roano

Roano was a great patron of the arts and undertook various initiatives in his cathedral, but the chapel of the Crucifix is surely one of his most impressive undertakings. It was constructed by the Jesuit architect Angelo Italia.  Roano was, however, a refined man who was cognizant of the greater Italo-Byzantine patrimony of his cathedral and as such, he ensured that his new baroque chapel was constructed in such a way as to remain discretely secluded from the rest of the church itself. 

That said, when one does finally come face to face with the entrance of this chapel, the portal itself announces to the visitor that he or she is in for quite a treat.

Upon entering, one is treated to the splendour that is Sicilian baroque, a form of baroque which would mesh quite well with the Iberian-Spanish tastes of the archbishop. 

The primary focal point, however, is the great fifteenth century crucifix found above the altar of the chapel.

A closer look reveals that the Cross of Christ is embedded within a depiction of the Tree of Jesse, depicting the royal lineage of Christ. 

The altar itself is a spectacular work of polychrome marble that includes an image of God the Father and the Holy Spirit set above a scene of the Annunciation. To either side of this we find fountains and Solomonic columns. 

Encircling the chapel's walls are statues of four prophets of the Old Testament, Isaiah, Ezekiel, Jeremiah and Daniel. 

The Prophet Isaiah

The prophet Ezekiel

The prophet Jeremiah

The prophet Daniel

In addition to these, there are also allegorical depictions of the three theological virtues: Faith, Hope and Charity.

Charity

Finally, we leave you with a few general views and details taken from the chapel. 

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