When traveling to the Island of Sicily, most people will first dock at the port of Messina.
This city is located on the northeastern side of Sicily and lies in close proximity to the mainland of Italy. As the third-largest city in Sicily, Messina has a population of 237,000 and its main sources of the economy are cruise tourism, its large shipping ports, and agricultural produce. This part of Sicily has seen forms of human settlement since ancient Greek times and throughout history, it has served as an important port and gateway to the Mediterranean sea and Italy. In 1783, records show that an immense earthquake devastated a large portion of the city and it took an age to rebuild.
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1. Messina Cathedral
As the main Catholic church in Messina, the Duomo has stood since 1551 and was originally constructed by a renowned architect from Florence who was actually a protégé of Michelangelo.
During WWII, the cathedral was hugely damaged, and the version you see today is a reconstruction that stays true to its original design and materials. Standing in the center of the Piazza del Duomo, the cathedral is truly impressive and exhibits a style that was typical of the time period.
Inside, the walls are lined with a series of stone statues depicting various religious figures whilst the main altar has a beautiful piece of artwork depicting Christ. Even the beams in the ceiling are decorated and contain a series of patterns and colored tiles.
2. Piazza del Duomo
This beautiful square is undoubtedly one of the main attractions in Messina – located in close proximity to the port and where the cruise ships dock, it is usually one of the first areas tourists head for.
Contained within the square is the Fontana di Orione which is an ornate water fountain with many detailed sculptures. Furthermore, there is also the Duomo and the imposing Bell Tower – Both of which are fantastic buildings in their own right.
Finally, there is also a selection of shops, restaurants, and cafes in close proximity to the square, and also several shaded areas with benches and trees to sit and people watch.
3. Messina Bell Tower
Completing the trio of attractions in this area of Messina, the Bell Tower stands proudly next to the re-mastered Duomo and is just as impressive. This huge tower has four separate tiers and the top section is a clock tower with a pointed roof.
Whilst the actual structure is amazing to behold, the clock mechanism is truly something else. This mechanism is one of the most important examples of its kind in the world - At noon, you can witness how the mechanism works and see different golden characters moving.
It is possible to step inside the tower and watch the intricate mechanism in action – It is truly fantastic to see the various weights, gears, and counterweights work together to move the objects.
4. Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani
Although this church is only small in size, it is a fine example of Norman architecture, and one of the few remaining buildings from the era that still stands in Messina. Located to the southeast of the Piazza del Duomo, this church is an absolute must-see.
The exterior of the church is an amalgamation of various designs and features some fantastic artwork and stone pillars/arches. It is clear to see the Normal influence through the hexagonal patterns and the shape of the dome.
Inside, the church is refined and simple, featuring a myriad of patterned brickwork and simple decoration.
5. Messina Regional Museum
Located further up from the Piazza del Duomo in the northern part of Messina, the Regional Museum provides a fascinating outlook at the history of the area. Split into three separate sections, the museum has an archaeological section, a sculpture collection, and a painting gallery.
These collections are extensive and contain a host of interesting and significant pieces such as Gagini’s sculpture of St. Antonius, and The Raising of Lazarus from the dead by the renowned Caravaggio. If you are interested in Italian and Renaissance art then this museum will provide lots of fun.
6. Camposanto
Although many people may find this a strange attraction, the Camposanto is a beautiful complex and provides the perfect resting place for the citizens of Messina. This monumental cemetery features a series of Neoclassical and Art Nouveau structures and sculptures and is more like a public park rather than a graveyard.
A series of flower beds and fountains are found in the central section, whilst a large colonnade sits on top of the main hill. The Camposanto is considered one of the most beautiful cemeteries in Italy and it is easy to see why.
7. Torre Faro
If you are looking for a trip out whilst based in Messina, Torre Faro is a lovely coastal village situated on the easternmost promontory of land that sticks out towers the Italian mainland.
Approximately 30 minutes by car, Torre Faro is easily accessible and provides a number of attractions and the opportunity for relaxation. A stretch of white sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing, and the streets are lined with charming cafes and souvenir shops.
Furthermore, there is a host of water sports and activities and boating to take part in if you are looking for a little adventure. Finally, a must-see is the gigantic metal lighthouse that sits at the edge of the beach – This immense structure is literally impossible to miss and stands at 225m high.
8. Zona Falcata
At the edge of the main port in Messina is the Zona Falcata; this area is a hive of activity and is where most of the commercial shipping trade takes place. As you walk over the main trading railway and into the industrial zone, you will see the everyday workings of a busy Mediterranean port.
Large cargo ships, tankers and cruise ships are continually entering and leaving the port, and goods are continually being moved from place to place. If you continue down the Via S Ranieri, you will eventually reach the edge of the port and the ornate lighthouse that stands here.
From this position, you are granted with panoramic views of Messina and you will clearly see the Belltower and the Duomo.
9. Temple Christ the King
If you are looking for panoramic views of Messina, then the Temple Christ the King is the perfect place to visit. Located high up on the Viale Principe Umberto, this monument offers fantastic views across to the Mediterranean sea and the whole of Messina.
Created in 1937, the actual monument features a beautiful hexagonal design and has a large ornate dome that can be seen for miles. With an amalgamation of designs, the church features several distinct time periods and combines elements of Corinthian design together with Baroque fixtures.
From the front of the church, you can see across to the port and even to the mainland of Italy on a clear day.
10. Lago di Ganzirri
Located to the west of Torre Faro, Lake Ganzirri is a wonderful natural landscape and offers a great hiking opportunity. This saltwater lake is actually fed from rainwater, groundwater and several small streams that run into it.
An abundance of fish live in the water and it is a regular sight to see fisherman trawling the lake in their small boats, and even to see fish jumping through the water. Surrounding the lake is a deluge of cafes and restaurants and local stores where you can grab a bite to eat.
Consider walking to the lake from Torre Faro and enjoying a pleasant stroll around its perimeter.
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