Discover some of the important buildings that were built after a major earthquake, such as the Palazzo Zanca (the municipal building), the Land Registry Office, the Old Customs House, and the Chamber of Commerce. Admire some of the most evocative churches. During the walk, recall the historical magnificence of the city before the earthquake and appreciate the breathtaking view of the port, with its natural sickle shape. It was in this place that the first colonizers decided to settle down.
Stroll over via I Settembre, famous because it was from here that the European Revolution of 1848 started. Then pay homage to the Donna Rosa Donato, a valorous heroin of that time.
At 12pm, you will be below the astronomic bell tower of the Cathedral in order to admire its inner workings and the usual 'cock – crow.' Stop for a coffee break and a souvenir. Then walk down through Via Lepanto, in which there is the statue of the admiral John of Austria, the captain that in 1571 won against the Ottoman Turkish Empire. Then, have a look at the Medieval Catalani’s Church and a greeting to the Messina 'Riconoscente pel benefizio del portofrancostatue' and the Madonna della Lettera who, from the top of the San Salvatore Castle, blesses the citizens of Messina.
Visits inside the Banco di Sicilia (where there is the bust of Rosa Donato) and at the Chamber of Commerce are available only between 9am to 1pm.
