Messina

Messina is the third large city of Sicily which is located in the north east part of the island. It is the important port and center of agriculture. Different kinds of wine and exotic fruit such as lemons, oranges, mandarins are cultivated there.

The city was founded in the 8th century BCE by Greek colonists, and was called Zancle that means scythe. Important historical battles and wars are connected with the life of Messina. It was conquered by the Goths, the Romans and other civilization during history of Italy.

Messina is interesting for its religious buildings. One of them is the Cathedral that contains the remains of Conrad. Earthquakes and fire almost ruined original Norman structure and it was rebuild during the 20th century. The bell tower of Messina Cathedral is remarkable by the largest astronomical clock in the world that is more than 70 years old and animated mechanical statues that relate about important historical events of the city.

The other interesting construction is Santa Maria degli Alemanni. It is a chapel of Teutonic Knights that is builds in Gothic style. The Annunziata dei Catalani is church that was built in 12th -13th century and represents Arab architectural influences.

Messina is famous for its beautiful fountains of medieval times. They are the fountain of Orion constructed in 1547, the fountain of Neptune built in 1557 and the Senatory fountain that exists from 1619.

Messina is fascinating and attractive city for tourists who visit Sicily.