Latin tradition in the Monreale Cathedral is very prominent: the Norman state, in fact, belonged to the Latin West. All this is reflected in the adherence to typical western schemes such as the longitudinal and Latin cross plan, as well as the entire layout of the church, in the form of a basilica with columns, and the convent. In the Latin-cross plan, the nave and transept have different lengths. The transept, in fact, intersecting the longitudinal nave at right angles, gives the church its classic layout. The point of intersection, called the cross, is often covered by a dome and, in some cases, a spire with a drum. Another Latin tradition is to use spoliation material, such as classical columns and capitals.
