Kingdom of Sicily (historical context)

The Kingdom of Sicily was a medieval realm established in the late 11th century when Normans conquered the island, initially part of the Byzantine and later Arab-controlled regions. It became a center of diverse cultures, blending Norman, Arab, and Italian influences, especially under King Roger II, who unified southern Italy and Sicily. The kingdom flourished until the 13th century when it passed to the Habsburgs, eventually becoming part of the Kingdom of Italy in the 19th century. Its rich history reflects the interactions of various civilizations that shaped Mediterranean culture and politics.