Messina

Messina is a province in Sicily, with a capital city bearing the same name. The province faces the Strait of Messina, in the northeast part of the region. The whole area named after the Greek city of Messene and is a province steeped with tradition and heritage.

Sights & Activities

There are several historic religious structures in the city of Messina itself. Its cathedral was built in the 12th century and is more popularly known as the Duomo. It is located at the Piazza del Duomo and was nearly destroyed during a massive earthquake in 1908. After rebuilding, it now bears some interesting features like the sculpture called the ‘Christ among the Evangelists,’ its beautiful mosaics, and beautiful columns. The cathedral also contains the remains of Conrad, King of Germany and Sicily who reigned in the 13th century. Beside this structure is the clock tower, which bears an astronomical clock with mechanical figures. Visitors often flock at the square at noon to see these figures become animated.

Also located in the square is the Fontana di Orione or the Fountain of Orion. This fountain was erected in 1553 and is attributed to the mythological character, Orion. There are also several sculptures adorning the fountains, including those depicting the rivers Nile, Tiber, Ebro, and Camaro. It is commonly described to be of pre-Baroque style.

Another religious structure is the Church of Santa Maria Alemanna, which was constructed in Gothic style.

One popular outdoor attraction in the city is the Orto botanico di Messina, a botanical garden located at Piazza 20 Settembre. The garden is managed by the University of Messina and contains a lot of plant species.

Culturally-minded visitors can also head out to the Regional Museum of Messina, which showcases some beautiful artworks, including those made by Caravaggio and da Messina.

Elsewhere in the province are several interesting attractions. An example of which is located in Tusa, in the archaeological area called the Halaesa Arconidea. Excavations had revealed the layout of a town, with remains of an ancient temple dedicated to the god Apollo. Located in the northern coast of the province is the village of Sant’Agata di Militello, where a castle was built in the 17th century for defensive purposes. In present times, visitors from all over the world can tour the castle and admire its interiors and a chapel which bears several classical elements of architecture.

At the town of Santa Teresa di Riva is the Tower of Saracens. Though the date of its construction remains uncertain, it was made to defend the coast from Saracen pirates.

Weather

The coastal part of Messina experiences Mediterranean climate, with mild winters that rarely get below freezing point and hot summer. Visitors who opt to come during the months of June to August should come prepared with appropriate sun protection. Autumn may experience occasional thunderstorms that get more frequent as the winter months approaches. Like the rest of Sicily, spring is still the best time for visiting, starting from March to early part of June, when the outdoor temperature is comfortable enough for most to go exploring.