Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock (Orologio Astronomico)

One of Messina’s main draws is its cathedral, which houses its own campanile, or bell tower. The 200-foot tower was built in the late 16th century, destroyed after an 18th-century earthquake and rebuilt in 1908. In 1933, an astronomical clock was installed at the top of the tower, and it remains one of the largest such clocks in the world. The clock's show happens at noon each day, when bells begin to chime, a lion roars, a rooster crows, and a procession of golden statues circles atop the tower. It's an incredible show, one that draws spectators daily.

Practical Info

The astronomical clock's show lasts about 12 minutes. You can climb a staircase inside the tower to see the clock's inner workings. Admission to the tower is €4 for adults, €2 for those under 18. It's open April-October 9:30am-1:30pm Wednesday-Monday, 9am-5pm Tuesdays; November 9:30am-1:30pm and 3-4:30pm Tuesday-Sunday; December-March only with a reservation.