Messina, or Missina in Sicilian, is the third largest city in Sicily and the capital of Italian Province of Messina. Located on the Straits of Messina opposite Villa San Giovanni, the city relies on several main streams of revenue - seaports, cruise tourism, commerce, and agriculture. Learn more about the city through the list of facts below.

1. Economy

The city is a gateway to most of northern Sicily farm produce including wines, lemons, orange, mandarin oranges and olive. It also thrives on having a marina where cruise ships docks and allows the tourists within the city. Do not be surprised to encounter a navy ship within the waters of the city - it has a major military ship yard.

2. History

The city was founded by the Greeks on 8th century BC and was formerly called 'Zancle' which is translated as "scythe" in reference to the shape of the natural harbor in the city. Unfortunately, the city is where the Black Death (Plague) entered Europe through the Genoese Ships from Caffa in the Crimea in 1348–50 CE. The plague killed between 70 and 200 million Europeans, reducing the population of the world from 450 million to 350–375 million in the 14th century.

3. Main Attractions

The attractions in Messina are divided into: Religious Architectures such as Cathedral of Messina, Church of the Annunziata dei Catalani, and Sanctuary of Montevergine; Civil and Military Architectures such as Botanical Garden Pietro Castelli, Porta Grazia and Palazzo Calapaj; Monuments such as Fountain of Orion and Fountain of Neptune; and Museums such as Galleria d'Arte Contemporanea di Messina.

4. Climate

The city is best visited in the warm months of April to November. During this time, you will be able to explore the main sights sufficiently as well as rent a boat and sail into the Mediterranean.

5. Culinary Delights

Most of the dishes in the city are made from wheat, olive and wine. Be sure to sample traditional Sicilian pasta dishes in the city.

Messina is still a very Sicilian city. You need to have picked a few words of Italian to be able to get around. Despite the language barrier, you will have a good time with the generous Sicilians and their beautiful city.