27 Messina, Italy -walk around the town

Here are more photos from walking around the town.

I came across several notable landmarks (Although I didn't have the chance to explore their interior, their exterior gave a glimpse of the artistic beauty they hold within): 

-Monte de Pieta, a historic building that stands out with its architectural grandeur. 

-Monastero di Montevergine, a serene monastery that exudes tranquility. Its peaceful surroundings and beautiful architecture make it a captivating spot for visitors.

-Chiesa de S. Eustochia Smeralda, a church that showcases exquisite craftsmanship in its design. 

-Palacultura, housing the Galleria d'Arte GAM and Biblioteca which is a cultural hub offers a diverse range of artistic and literary treasures, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts and book lovers.

-Chiesa di San Francesco, a magnificent church that commands attention with its architectural splendor. 

-Messina opera house

As I captured these moments on my journey, it became clear that Messina is a city rich in history, culture, and architectural beauty. 

Monte de Pieta

Palacultura, housing the Galleria d'Arte GAM and Biblioteca

Chiesa di San Francesco

Messina Opera House

26- Messina, Italy -Viale Principe Umberto Scenic Overlook

 This is another panoramic viewpoint located at Viale Principe Umberto 981 at the foot of  Sacrario di Cristo Re. It is another place provides view of Messina and its surroundings.  It is where we also have another look at Santuario della Madonna di Montalto (the pink cathedral I posted last post #25) 

25 Messina, Italy-Punti Panoramici-Panoramic viewpoint and the Sanctuary of Montalto

After visited the Piazza del Duomo, it was a short walk to visit a panoramic viewpoint Punti Panoramici, or Panoramic Viewpoint, in Messina, Italy where it offers breathtaking views of the city, its harbor, and the surrounding landscape which include the bell tower/Piazza del Duomo and Madonnina del Porto in the harbor.  

The pink colored cathedral is called the Sanctuary of Montalto. Unfortunately, it was not open for tourist at the time we visited.

I included some of the photos taken while walking uphill to this viewpoint and photos taken at the viewpoint.

Photo of the Sanctuary of Montalto taken from afar while walking to another viewpoint which I will write about in a later post.

24 Messina, Italy- The Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock

This 60-meter high bell-tower, reconstructed using old designs, contains one of the greatest of all astronomical clocks, a work by the Strasbourg firm of Ungerer placed there in 1933.

One of the most enchanting aspects of the astronomical clock is its animated figurines, which come to life during certain times. The most famous feature is the procession of the "Mechanical Christ," where every day at noon (or sometimes shortly after) the figures begin moving and show scenes from the history of Messina, including the handing-over of the legendary letter of protection from the Madonna to Messina.

The show begins with a gilded lion waving a banner and roaring, and the action continues for 15 minutes with animated figures popping out of windows. On the side of the tower facing the church façade, a clock face shows astronomical information.