The Osterio Magno, which is estimated to date back to the Roman period (as evidenced by the ancient cistern found inside it) is located in the historic center of Cefalù, where it stands out for its stylistic features, is one of the most famous and prestigious civil buildings of the city. It is thought that it was the first residence of the Norman king Roger II, and that remained a property of his until the arrival of the Ventimiglia family who rebuilt it to their liking in the 13th century. It remained in their hands until the end of the 16th century.

Over the centuries, this palace has undergone many variations, so much so as to make it an important testimony of the various cultures that have followed one another in the dominance of the Sicilian territory: in it we find in fact various styles of construction, Norman, Byzantine, Roman and in particular in the walls, Greek. Inside, visiting the rooms, you can retrace the history of this building and the people who lived there, rediscovering the historical charm of the different cultures to which it belonged.

In 1200 one of the most symbolic parts was built: the Bicromo Palace, so called because of the particular double coloring of the facade given by the materials used (tuff and lava stone) arranged in such a way as to form a mosaic.
What stands out most in the Osteria Magno is the large courtyard, where there is a staircase leading to the various rooms, which now, after almost 20 years of closure to the public, will be reopened and used for photographic exhibitions and exhibition events.

Opening time
The site can be visited every day at the following times:
April 10:00 – 13:00 / 15:00 -18: 00
May – September 10:00 – 13:00 / 15:00 -19: 00

Ticket prices Entrance
The ticket costs €2

You can buy tickets on site or buy them online at the address: Entrance ticket.

The site is not wheelchair accessible.