Messina is situated on the island of Sicily; it is the third largest city on the island, behind Palermo and Catania. It is also the capital of the province, which bears the same name. It is located on the northeastern corner of the island, near the Strait of Messina and just opposite the mainland town of Villa San Giovanni, which is about 2 miles over the water.
Like the rest of the island, Messina has fabulous weather and its average temperature from May to October ranges from 19 degrees Celsius in May to 29 in July and August, back down to 20 in October. Also there is very little rainfall between June and September.
Like all Italian towns and cities, it has a wealth of churches to visit and explore. The main cathedral was built in the 12th century and is the final resting place of the remains of King Conrad, the ruler of Germany and Sicily during the 13th century. The Annunziata dei Catalani dates back to around the 12th-13th century, it is unusual in design due its circular apse and high dome and it reflects Arabic architectural influences. If Gothic architecture is more your thing, then a visit to the Santa Maria degli Alemanni is in order; it was also once the Teutonic Knights chapel.
There are four lovely fountains here: the Fountain of Orion, which is next to the cathedral, was designed and built by Giovanni Angelo Montorsoli in 1547, as was the Fountain of Neptune, which is located in the harbour (1557). Only two of the Quattro Fontane (four fountains) remains today, but it is still a worthwhile place to visit.
Some of the other noteworthy places to visit in the city include the San Ranieri lighthouse, which dates back to 1555; the Palazzo Calapaj, which is a fine example of Messinese architecture, which managed to survive the earthquake of 1908 and Porta Grazia is the 16th century gate of the citadel and fortress, which still exists in the harbour. There is also the regional museum, which has paintings by Caravaggio and Antonello da Messina, as well as the museum of popular culture and music. The Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock is another curiosity and the ticking of the clock at noon is something everyone who has attended agrees is a definite must when holidaying here.
The city also offers a range of tours from bus to walking tours. These are a great way to see the sights and have someone give you a little bit of information and history about them.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Messina? Then below is a selection of Apartments in Messina and villas in Messina that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
