Messina Cathedral

Messina, Italy

Messina Cathedral dates back to the 12th century, but it was thoroughly restored between 1919-1920 due to the earthquake that had caused serious damage in 1908. During the Second World War when the Allied dropped bombs on the city, a fire destroyed part of the cathedral which was rebuilt in 1943.

The apsidal area has its original Norman structure and the three outstandingly decorated portals of the façade built following the late Gothic style may have been built, at least the central one, at the beginning of 15th century. A sculpture of Jesus among the Evangelists stands in the architrave where it is also possible to admire human beings, animals and plants beautifully sculpted.The tympanum dates back to the second half of 15th century. There is a nave and two aisles where files of 28 columns stand. Part of the decoration is original except the mosaics in the apse which are reconstructions.

This cathedral is where the remains of remarkable men rest such as Conrad IV king of Germany and Sicily (13th century) and many archbishops. The chapel of Sacrament, built in the late 16th century, houses scenographic decorations and mosaics dating back to 14th century. In 1933 the Ungerer company of Strasbourg incorporated the largest astronomical clock in the world in the bell tower.

Every day a t 12 there is a performance by mechanically animated statues telling the core facts of civil and religious history of Messina.

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Founded: 1197
Category: Religious sites in Italy

Rating

4.7/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Brendan Hughes (3 months ago)
We only had an hour between trains. Took a taxi up and back just to see the Astronomical clock. The church was closed as was everything else on New Years day.
Olivia Füchtjohann (5 months ago)
Simplesmente lindo! I absolutely love this place… so amazing! Please visit it!
P P (5 months ago)
One of the best cathedrals I have ever seen. The lion roars, the rooster crows and the figures move with music from the cathedral. Inside also very spectacular.
Jamie Hobor (7 months ago)
Beautiful Basilica. We were there at Noon & enjoyed hearing the bell tower.
tsaprounius 13 (8 months ago)
Grazie il tutti signore e signori! ?? Sicily is my second home these years and I can't be thankful enough for my experiences!! The basilica is one of the majestic sights you have to visit when you stay in Messina! Had the luck to watch the moving statues inside the clock while the bells were ringing! An amazing sight really! I totally recommend it! ?
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