Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock
Witness the world's largest and most complex mechanical astronomical clock perform its daily spectacle, then climb for breathtaking views of Messina.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
See the clock's mechanical show
Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock
Best Time
See the clock's mechanical show
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the world's largest and most complex mechanical astronomical clock perform its daily spectacle, then climb for breathtaking views of Messina.
"The clock mechanism as you make your way up is so freaking cool to look at."
🎯 Arrive Early for Noon Show
Secure a good viewing spot for the 12 PM clock performance; crowds can be substantial. :camerawithflash:
👟 Be Ready for Stairs
Climbing the tower involves many steps, so wear comfortable shoes. No elevator available. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Astronomical Clock Show
Witness the world's largest and most complex mechanical astronomical clock come alive daily at noon with a captivating show.
Panoramic City Views
Ascend the bell tower for breathtaking 360-degree views of Messina and the surrounding coastline.
Intricate Clock Mechanism
Marvel at the engineering behind the clock, a masterpiece of counterweights, levers, and gears.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Clock Show
Climbing the Tower: A Stair Challenge
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Noon Show
Secure a good viewing spot for the 12 PM clock performance; crowds can be substantial. :camerawithflash:
👟 Be Ready for Stairs
Climbing the tower involves many steps, so wear comfortable shoes. No elevator available. :athletic_shoe:
🧐 Understand the Show
The noon show is a mechanical display with sound effects; don't expect a narrative story. :information_desk:
☕ Coffee Break Nearby
Enjoy a coffee or pastry at one of Messina's many excellent pasticcerias after your visit. :coffee:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Noon Show
Secure a good viewing spot for the 12 PM clock performance; crowds can be substantial. :camerawithflash:
👟 Be Ready for Stairs
Climbing the tower involves many steps, so wear comfortable shoes. No elevator available. :athletic_shoe:
🧐 Understand the Show
The noon show is a mechanical display with sound effects; don't expect a narrative story. :information_desk:
☕ Coffee Break Nearby
Enjoy a coffee or pastry at one of Messina's many excellent pasticcerias after your visit. :coffee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock, particularly the intricate mechanical show at noon, hailed as the world's largest and most complex. The panoramic views from the tower climb are a major draw, offering stunning vistas of Messina. However, some find the noon show a bit underwhelming without a narrative, and the climb involves a significant number of stairs.
"The great clock of Messina:The bell tower of the Cathedral of Messina is 60 m high and contains the biggest and the most complex mechanical and astronomical clock
in the world.
Designed by the firm Ungerer of Strasbourg for the Archbishop at the time, Mons. Angelo Paino, the clock was inaugurated on August 13th, 1933. At noon a complex system of counterweights, leverages and gears, determines the movements of the 54 gilded bronze statues located in the façade overlooking the square.
One can climb the tower (5€) for an wonderful view of Messina"
Xinli Hou
"If you're not afraid of heights you definitely should go see this! The views are beautiful!! The clock mechanism as you make your way up is so freaking cool to look at. Don't get stuck inside when the bells ring! My wife counted 27 flights of stairs to the top. There's not an elevator."
Rhachel Brown
"So close to the port our cruise docked that we walked to get here. We waited til 12 noon to see the display on the clock tower.
There were so many people waiting. It was a music and some movements from the tower display. A bit underwhelming, there was no story behind the presentation, some sound effects like the cockerel but no story telling.
The church itself was ok but can be hectic once the presentation was over and everyone went inside the church. The shop nearby was tiny but the surrounding souvineer shops and restaurants were packed with tourists."
mrsm
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock is located in Piazza del Duomo, easily accessible from the port if you're arriving by cruise ship. Many visitors walk from the port. It's also reachable by local buses.
Yes, the Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock is a prominent landmark in the heart of Messina, situated on the Cathedral of Messina. It's hard to miss!
Many visitors arrive by train to Messina Centrale or by ferry/cruise ship. The clock tower is a short walk from the port and easily accessible from the train station.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Climbing the tower typically costs around 5 euros. The clock show itself is free to watch from the piazza.
No, tickets are not required for the noon clock show as it's viewed from the piazza. However, if you wish to climb the tower, you'll purchase tickets on-site.
The clock show occurs daily at noon. The tower is generally open for climbing during daylight hours, but it's best to check locally for specific times.
Unfortunately, there is no elevator to the top of the Bell Tower. Visitors must climb approximately 27 flights of stairs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
At precisely 12:00 PM, the clock comes to life with a 15-minute mechanical performance featuring moving gilded bronze statues, roosters, and other figures, accompanied by music and sound effects.
From the top, you'll get a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of Messina, the harbor, and the surrounding coastline.
Many find the mechanical show fascinating, especially given its complexity and historical significance as the largest in the world.
The mechanical performance and carillon show typically lasts about 15 minutes.
While not always explicitly advertised, some private tour operators in Sicily include this stop.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the piazza and surrounding streets are lined with souvenir shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Messina is known for its delicious pastries and coffee. Be sure to try a 'granita' or 'cannolo' from a local pasticceria.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the clock show in action from the piazza, the intricate details of the clock mechanism as you climb, and the sweeping city views from the top.
Yes, but be prepared for crowds. Try to position yourself early for a clear shot of the moving figures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, the climb up the tower involves many stairs, which might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. 🚢 Cruise Ship Passengers
Be mindful of time if you have a strict departure schedule, as the climb can take a while. 🚶 Budget Travelers
If you decide to climb the tower, the 5 euro fee is a reasonable price for the incredible views and the unique experience of seeing the clock mechanism up close. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Marvel of the Astronomical Clock
Its construction was commissioned to celebrate the reconstruction of the bell tower after the devastating 1908 Messina earthquake, making it a symbol of resilience. The clock's daily performance at noon is a highlight for many visitors. A sophisticated system of counterweights, levers, and gears orchestrates the movement of 54 gilded bronze statues, depicting various figures and scenes.
+1 These include a lion that roars, a rooster that crows, and representations of biblical figures and church clergy, all moving in a synchronized ballet. The show lasts approximately 15 minutes and is a unique spectacle that draws crowds to Piazza del Duomo. While the visual spectacle is impressive, some visitors note that the show lacks a narrative, focusing more on the mechanical movements and sound effects.
Climbing the Bell Tower for Unforgettable Views
Upon reaching the top, you are rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the city.
The vantage point provides an excellent opportunity for photography, capturing the essence of Messina from a unique aerial perspective. It's a highly recommended activity for those seeking a more immersive experience beyond just watching the clock show. 
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