Messina, the gateway to Sicily, awaits you for an unforgettable experience on foot, with the coast of Calabria so close you can almost touch it. This seaside corner, known as Zancle by the Greeks, offers a unique experience, and the best way to explore it is through a relaxing walk.
Strolling through the city
Favoured by Mediterranean cruise ships, Messina is loved by tourists for its beauty, and the best way to discover its treasures is by walking. Here are ten things to do in this charming city:
1. Explore the historic centre: A stroll around the Duomo, with the scent of the sea and horse-drawn carriages, will immerse you in the Belle Époque atmosphere of Messina. Visit the magnificent Cathedral with its late-Gothic portals and the majestic mosaic of Christ Pantocrator.
2. Lunch in Piazza Duomo: Admire the Norman bell tower of the Duomo, standing 60 meters tall, and enjoy the spectacle of the world's largest and most complex mechanical and astronomical clock. At noon, watch the carousel of gilded bronze statues on the facade as they move to the sound of Schubert’s Ave Maria.
3. Fountain of Orion: Near the Duomo’s bell tower, discover the monumental Fountain of Orion, a masterpiece of European Renaissance art created by Montorsoli, a disciple of Michelangelo.
4. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele III: Admire the scenic Liberty-style Galleria near Piazza Duomo, with its covered structure and grand glass dome.
5. Villa De Pasquale: Just a few minutes from the tram terminus, reach Villa De Pasquale on foot, a splendid example of Art Nouveau style, nestled in a magnificent park.
6. Savor the "Mezza con Panna": End your tour with a stop at a café overlooking the port and taste the typical "mezza con panna," a unique Messina coffee. Take the opportunity to enjoy the sea view of the Strait.
7. Spiritual experience in Messina: Discover the rich offerings of spiritual tourism with visits to sanctuaries, pilgrimage paths, and significant churches. Check out the Sanctuary of the Madonna of Montalto and the Sanctuary of the Black Madonna of Tindari.
8. Cultural sites: Visit the University, the Botanical Garden, the Vittorio Emanuele Theatre, and the Regional Museum to immerse yourself in Messina's history and art.
9. Pilone: Admire the "Messina Eiffel Tower," the monumental steel pylon that dominates the Strait of Messina with its spectacular panoramic view.
10. Sea and legends: Explore Messina’s connection to the sea through legends like that of Colapesce. Savor local delicacies in the restaurants around the Nature Reserve and enjoy the Historic Aquarium, a must-see for marine life enthusiasts.
End your day with a stroll through central Piazza Cairoli, shopping along Viale San Martino, and tasting local delights such as arancini and traditional Messina focaccia. Let yourself be captivated by the magic of Messina!