Messina

Messina

As Sicilys main gateway to continental Italy, Messina is a large and bustling port city completely rebuilt after a devasting earthquake in 1908. South of Messina, in the shadow of Mt Etna, is the beautiful resort of Taormina. Clinging to the side of a mountain, Taormina affords spectacular views at every turn. After admiring the magnificent Greek Theatre dating from the 3rd Century B.C., take a stroll along the main shopping street to appreciate the harmony of Taorminas architecture.

Attractions

For a show unlike any you've seen before, check out the world's largest astronomical clock, Orologio Astronomico, in the Piazza del Duomo. It's set in a 197-foot bell tower and when the clock strikes noon, it comes to life. As Ave Maria begins playing from a loudspeaker, the bronze mechanical figures start to move. A lion roars, a bird flaps its wings, and two historical heroines take turns ringing the bell, all before it ends with a statue of Jesus appearing from a tomb.

Activities

Take a walk through the Duomo, the town's main cathedral in the Piazza del Duomo. Although most of it has been refurbished in recent years, it has retained some of the original Norman-style features from 1160, when it was built by the Holy Roman emperor Henry VI. Make a wish in the Fontana di Orione in the center of the piazza. The pre-baroque-style fountain was built to commemorate Messina's aqueduct and symbolizes the four rivers, Tiber, Nile, Ebore and Camaro. Spend some time in the Museo Regionale. Here you'll find an amazing collection of art rescued from the 1908 earthquake, including pieces dating back to the 13th century.

Food

For a taste of traditional Sicilian cuisine, look for eggplant caponata - a stew of tomatoes, eggplant, capers and olives - typically served in restaurants as an antipasto. Rice balls, or arancini di riso, are also very common and can be found in many restaurants and at sidewalk stands. For dessert, try a slice of Sicilian cassata cake, a square sponge cake covered with ricotta cheese frosting, maraschino liqueur, candied fruit and nuts.

Currency

The Euro (EUR), the currency of the European Union, is the official currency of Italy. Many stores and restaurants also accept major credit cards, which usually offer you a good exchange rate. When shopping, remember there is a Value-Added Tax added to most purchases.

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