Messina is the Gateway to Sicily

Messina, Sicily is the third-largest city on this Italian island, and it’s where tourists usually encounter Sicily. As you sail into port, the golden La Madonnina del Porto guarding Sicily will guide your way.

If you like religious architecture, Messina has plenty worth visiting, including the Norman Messina Cathedral and Piazza del Duomo. The Orion Fountain there was created during the Renaissance by by G.A. Montorsoli, one of Michelangelo’s students.

One of the largest mechanical clocks in the world located is in Messina. The Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock play a show everyday for the crowds gathered at noon; a lion roars, the clock plays “Ave Maria,” and lots of moving parts come to life.