A modern Sicilian city, rebuilt to withstand earthquakes after the devastating early 20th century earthquake that razed it to the ground, Messina is a gem to discover.
The great protagonists of history, like the Greeks and Carthaginians, the Romans and Normans, up to Garibaldi and the Allies during World War II have all come through here. Today Messina is quite a lively city, entirely involved in trade and tourism. Thanks to its mild climate favourable all year round, any time is a good time to organise your holiday in Messina.
Of great strategic and commercial importance, Messina has always been crucial in particular to the communication between Sicily and Calabria. The ancient Zancle is one of the most beautiful Sicilian provinces, rich in history and with many tales to be told. Arriving by sea from the Calabrian coast, you can admire the truly beautiful Madonnina at the port of Messina, and then, near the station, you'll see a stupendous fountain and the grand palace that today houses the chamber of commerce.
At the historic centre of Messina you can visit what perhaps is considered the true symbol of the city, that is, the Cathedral of Messina, with its impressive bell tower. Of particular interest on this same square is the large Fountain of Orion, representing 4 rivers extremely important to the citizens of Messina and built after the earthquake. Visiting the great treasure and its museum inside the cathedral is a must. Afterwards, go up to the top of the bell tower, which offers you quite the spectacular view.
A holiday in Messina is also an excellent chance to discover the other numerous wonders of this region. You can get to Taormina and Milazzo, Tindari and the Aeolian Islands, the northern side of Mount Etna and the woods of the Nebrodi Mountains in no time.Last but not least, a reason to visit Messina is its celebrated cuisine. Messina's traditional dishes are mainly made of fish, above all thanks to its geographical position. Its swordfish is particularly renowned, cooked in different ways: prepared in rolls or roasted or as a baked casserole or in the classic recipe of swordfish steaks, stuffed with stale bread, parmesan, pecorino cheese, garlic, olive oil and parsley. The meat dishes are also mouthwatering, like for example the exquisite lamb baked in the oven with olives and pecorino cheese. Lastly, the sweets are perhaps the crowning point of this city's cuisine: cassate (Sicilian ricotta cakes), stuffed cannoli, pinolata (pine nut cake), frutta martorana (marzipan sweets) and the typical granita served with whipped cream. Still not convinced? Check out our holiday packages to Messina now a brand new, unforgettable adventure awaits you!