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History can offer us glimpses into not only the most heroic and shining aspects of man, but also his darker, more macabre side. For those who appreciate this historical broad spectrum, this is the excursion for you. Because you will not only explore the exalted, artistic beauty of some of Palermo's architectural masterpieces, you will also visit two oratories ornated by the finest works of art of XVIII century artist Giacomo Serpotta, who created the stuccoes depicting the Mysteries of the Rosary and descend into the city's famed catacombs to view over 8,000 preserved bodies!

It all begins at your pier where you will board an air-conditioned motorcoach for a narrated drive though Palermo's historic old city. A knowledgeable guide will point out highlights such as the Politeama Theatre, built in the 1800s in the neoclassical style of the time and the majestic Massimo Theatre, the largest theatre in Italy. Your drive continues through Quattro Canti "Four Corners" – the traditional heart of Palermo and the site of many monuments, churches and Baroque fountains. View sculptures built on the façades of each of the four buildings in 1611 celebrating seasons, a patron saint, or a Spanish viceroy.

Your tour turns to the eerie as you arrive at the Capuchin Catacombs. From its unassuming exterior on the Piazza Cappuccini, you will descend into the catacombs. A repository for 8000 bodies dating from 1599 to 1920, you'll encounter a bizarre scene featuring bodies in varying states of decay yet dressed in the finest fashion of their day. You'll learn that this strange custom began in 1599 when it was discovered that the soil in the region had preservative qualities. First, the monks wanted to be mummified…then nobles. Eventually, mummification became fashionable for regular Palermo residents, too. In fact, there are nearly 1,000 citizens here. They are displayed standing, lying in open coffins. The crypt is organized by social status and gender. There are sections dedicated to priests; professionals; women; even a special display of virgins.

Back above ground, dive into the mystic atmosphere of the Oratories of Santa Cita and San Domenico. Decorated by Giacomo Serpotta between 1686 and 1718, the oratory of Santa Cita boasts impressive stucco works featuring religious allegories and each one of the Mysteries of the Rosary. Serpotta also bequeathed us with the stuccoes decorating the interior of the Oratory of San Domenico and depicting scenes from the Apocalypse. The Oratory is dominated by the Virgin of the Rosary, but also paintings by Pietro Novelli, Giacomo Lo Verde, Matthias Stomer and Luca Giordano embellish the walls.

The history of man is a patchwork of great, enlightened achievement and dark, even macabre endeavors. Your historic tour of Palermo offers a fascinating and informative glimpse at both.