The Norman Ascent (New Version 2014) Lyrics


The Normans led by d'Altavilla brothers,

Ruggero and Roberto also known as Guiscardo,

Were outnumbered by the Arab army,

But they had never counted the number of enemies,

They were brave men, adventurous and skilful strategists.

The two brothers, to carry a modest army,

Assembled as many ships as possible and crossed the strait.

The Saracens sent, from Balarm, reinforcements

And a large naval fleet to intercept them along Messina's coasts.

Ruggero, with his small part of the army,

Headed straight to the Sicilian city, attracting all the Arab force

Towards himself, thus allowing Roberto to land further north.

Ruggero, deployed his few soldiers,

Waited without fear the arrival of the Saracens.

The Arabs assaulted immediately, but were caught behind

by Guiscardo and the rest of the Norman army.

Panicked Muslins began fleeing.

The few Saracen soldiers within the city, when they saw their fleet deceived

And their army defeated, surrendered.

Ruggero gave Roberto the keys of the city of Messina,

Conquered almost without fighting and thanked God for an easy victory.