The port of Messina, located on the northeastern coast of Sicily, is an important hub for both commercial and passenger traffic. Serving as a gateway to the Mediterranean, the port connects Sicily to mainland Italy, making it a strategic point of entry for trade and tourism. With modern infrastructure and facilities, the port offers a wide range of services, including ferry connections to other ports in Italy and nearby islands. The picturesque harbor is surrounded by stunning views of the Strait of Messina and the Calabrian coast, making it a popular destination for cruise ships and private yachts.
Are you ready for an adventure? Do you want to discover a port town that has witnessed the passage of Greeks, Romans, Normans, and Byzantines? Then let me introduce you to the charming port of Messina, situated in the north-eastern part of Sicily, Italy.
The port of Messina has a rich history and cultural heritage, offering a unique blend of architectural styles, ranging from ancient Greek and Roman ruins to Norman and Baroque buildings. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by the iconic statue of Madonna della Lettera, standing tall at the entrance of the port. This statue is an important symbol of the city and is believed to protect the sailors and fishermen at sea.
As you step out of the port, you will find yourself in the heart of the city, surrounded by bustling streets and colorful markets. Messina is famous for its production of sweet wines and preserves, which you can taste and buy in the local shops. Don't miss the opportunity to try the traditional Sicilian cannoli, a sweet pastry filled with ricotta cheese and chocolate chips.
One of the most impressive sights in Messina is the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, located in the main square of the city. The cathedral is a masterpiece of Sicilian Baroque architecture, with its ornate façade and impressive bell tower. Inside, you can admire the stunning mosaics and frescoes that depict scenes from the Bible and the life of the Virgin Mary.
For a panoramic view of the city and the Strait of Messina, take a cable car to the hilltop town of Taormina, located a short drive from the port. Taormina is a picturesque town with narrow streets, charming cafes, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
In conclusion, the port of Messina is a fascinating destination that combines history, culture, and stunning scenery. Whether you want to explore ancient ruins, taste delicious Sicilian cuisine, or admire breathtaking views, Messina has something for everyone. So, why not make it your next port of call and discover the wonders of this enchanting city?
In the narrow strait that separates the island of Sicily from the Italian mainland lies the ancient port of Messina. The bustling port has been a hub of maritime trade for centuries, and with its rich history comes a tale of a powerful sea creature that has captured the imagination of generations.
Legend has it that the strait was once terrorized by a monstrous creature known as Scylla. With six heads and twelve legs, the creature would lurk beneath the surface, waiting for unsuspecting ships to pass by. When a ship would draw near, Scylla would emerge from the water, its razor-sharp teeth tearing apart the wooden vessels and devouring the hapless sailors.
But it wasn't just Scylla that sailors had to worry about in the treacherous waters of the strait. On the opposite side of the channel was another terrifying monster, Charybdis. This creature was a massive whirlpool that would suck ships down to the bottom of the sea, never to be seen again.
The two beasts were said to have been created by the sea god Poseidon, as a punishment for a beautiful sea nymph named Scylla who had spurned his advances. As the legend goes, Poseidon turned the nymph into a monster, and the sailors who passed by the strait were the ones who had to suffer the consequences.
Over time, the legend of Scylla and Charybdis grew, and it became a metaphor for any treacherous situation that people might encounter in life. To this day, the port of Messina remains a vital shipping hub, and while Scylla and Charybdis may no longer pose a threat to sailors, their legacy lives on in the stories and legends of the strait.
Running on Waves
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Sailing countries:
Albania
Croatia
Cyprus
Egypt
France
Greece
Israel
Italy
Lebanon
Montenegro
Portugal
Spain
Turkey
...and other
- Max guests: 42
- Length over all: 64 m
- Cruising speed: 10 knots
A three-mast sailing vessel, rigging type – barquentine. With the length of 64 metres, she is one of the biggest sailing yachts in the world. Unique superyacht designed to provide amazing experience for its guests.