Cathedral - Architectural History - East Part

The east part of the building is impressive. It can be viewed by going along the south side and then up behind the east side itself, following a narrow path upwards to a narrow platform. Alternatively it can be seen from the top of the Rocca di Cefalù. The east parts are considerably higher than the nave. The semi-circular self-contained choir juts out to the east. The lower part has pilasters which support domed pillars. In the central axis there is a window, whilst in the upper part of the wall three false windows can be seen. At the top the wall is rounded off by a round-arch frieze. The type of frieze characteristic of Norman architecture, composed of pointed arches crossing over one another, is to be found on the side walls of the choir and on the eastern transept walls. The southern (left-hand) arm of the transept is higher than both the northern arm and the roof of the central aisle, as a result of vaulting which was added in the 15th century.