Welcome to Messina! This charming port city is right in front of us, if you arrive by cruise ship, without the need to take a shuttle bus. Here, in Messina, a unique experience awaits you, full of history, culture and beauty. Join us on this tour of the treasures this city has to offer.
The Surprise of Messina
As we disembark, we realize that Messina is a special place. We didn’t need a shuttle bus to get to the center; we simply walked from the port. This time, we were fortunate that the shuttle bus was right next to the port gates. Plus, it is usually discounted due to competition with the tourist train. So we started our adventure with a nice savings!
The Historic Heart of Messina
Arriving in the city center, we came across the impressive Town Hall of Messina. Maybe at first glance it won’t seem like something you should explore, but let me tell you that it hides a treasure trove of historical costumes inside. An exhibit that will transport you back in time and allow you to immerse yourself in Messina’s rich history.
Archaeological and Religious Treasures
Right next to the cathedral of Messina, we discovered the remains of the Church of St. James, with archaeological excavations that took place between 2000 and 2006. These excavations revealed part of the central nave and the south isle of the church dedicated to St. James the Apostle, a jaw-dropping window into history.
The Cathedral of Messina, with its Gothic portal and 15th century windows, stands next to the Clock Tower, creating one of the most emblematic ensembles of the city. And we cannot forget to mention the Astronomical Clock, a monumental jewel built between 1930 and 1933. This clock, which plays recorded music at noon on Sundays, is a spectacle in itself. The figures and icons around the clock come to life in a dance that will transport you to another time.
Exploring the Heights
We climbed the hill to the Church of Maria de Montalto, where we were greeted by a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. Just outside the church, we enjoyed an open-air concert. If you are a lover of churches and music, Messina will make you feel like in paradise. In addition, we discovered a secret corner as we exited the back of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Montalto: the Fountain of Falconry. A hidden gem that you won’t find in the traditional tourist guides.
We continued our tour and climbed even higher to reach the cathedral of San Salvatore (Chiesa San Salvatore). Since it was a Sunday, we had the opportunity to witness a morning mass. Although the 1908 earthquakes destroyed the original courts, the new courts have been designed with a classical touch that gives them a special charm.
Art, Culture and Beach in Messina
In our exploration, we found the Sanctuary Church of Mount Carmel, an unusual gem with a beautiful garden. The Teatro Vittorio Emanuela stands out as a stunning example of pre-earthquake neoclassical architecture. Directly across the street is the Palazzo del Governatore, a structure that radiates history.
For beach lovers, Messina offers an interesting option: a streetcar that takes you to the coast. Although it’s a long ride, we assure you that the panoramic view of Messina from up there is worth it. Also, don’t forget to visit the Regional Museum, which houses treasures from antiquity, including walls that might remind you of those of Troy.
A Journey in Time in Messina
In our search for unexpected treasures, we stumbled upon the Temple of Apollo, an ancient gem dating back to the 6th century BC. This temple, dedicated to Apollo, is located near a charming marketplace. Right in the middle of the square, we discovered a beautiful fountain dedicated to Artemis, or Diana in English, a detail that shows the meticulous attention Sicilians pay to their traditions and to offering personalized gifts.
Messina is a city full of surprises and treasures to be discovered around every corner. From its rich history and architecture to its hidden treasures, Messina will captivate you with its Sicilian charm and hospitality. So, the next time you’re sailing through the Strait of Messina, be sure to make a stop in this gem of the Italian coast – we assure you won’t regret exploring Messina and all it has to offer!
Useful links:
Enjoy your visit to Messina!
