In the Norman era, walking on the Cassaro Alto meant admiring the magnificence of monarchical power. Today’s Cassaro derives from Qasr, the palace that became the seat of the Emir during Islamic rule. Following his coronation, Roger II decided to transform and extend the building to make it his palace. It was a marvel for the eyes: the curtain wall was interspersed with watchtowers and you could already catch a glimpse of the red dome of the chapel the king had designed for himself: the Palatine.
