Torre dell'Orologio (Porta di Mezzo)
A 12th-century medieval gate and clock tower, marking Taormina's entrance and hiding a stunning Byzantine mosaic.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for mosaic viewing
Torre dell'Orologio (Porta di Mezzo)
Best Time
Best light for mosaic viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 12th-century medieval gate and clock tower, marking Taormina's entrance and hiding a stunning Byzantine mosaic.
"The unexpected Byzantine mosaic inside the gate is a beautiful, vibrant surprise!"
👀 Spot the Mosaic
Don't miss the stunning Byzantine mosaic of the Virgin Mary inside the gate's recess. It's a true hidden treasure!
🚶♀️ Walk Through History
This gate is a key part of Taormina's medieval fortifications. Imagine centuries of history as you pass through.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.6 · 108 reviews
Type
Tourist Attraction
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Byzantine Mosaic
Inside the arched recess of the gate
A remarkably preserved Byzantine mosaic of the Virgin Mary and Christ Child, offering a vibrant glimpse into ancient art.
Porta di Mezzo Gate
Entrance to medieval Taormina
A 12th-century medieval gate, once part of the city's fortifications, offering a passage through history.
Piazza IX Aprile Views
Adjacent to the gate
Enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and Mount Etna from this lively piazza, a perfect spot to soak in the atmosphere.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👀 Spot the Mosaic
Don't miss the stunning Byzantine mosaic of the Virgin Mary inside the gate's recess. It's a true hidden treasure!
🚶♀️ Walk Through History
This gate is a key part of Taormina's medieval fortifications. Imagine centuries of history as you pass through.
Taormina travel tips
Couple holiday M31 & F28. Staying in centre of Taormina for 7 days and looking for some recommendations. I have booked a wine tour and we will do Mount Etna tour one day. Probably do some kind of boat trip also. Any other recommendation on restaurants, bars, day trips,…
📸 Capture the Moment
The gate and the adjacent piazza offer beautiful photo opportunities, especially with the coastal backdrop.
🎶 Enjoy the Vibe
The area around the tower is often lively with music and local life, creating a festive atmosphere.
Considering cancelling 3 nights in Taormina and making it a day trip
Ciao a tutti! I've got 3 nights booked in Taormina which was done without much research, after reading online (reddit mostly) I've come to the conclusion that it may be a waste of time and money. Altough I am a tourist I don't want to be surrounded by them, and I definitely…
Tips
from all over the internet
👀 Spot the Mosaic
Don't miss the stunning Byzantine mosaic of the Virgin Mary inside the gate's recess. It's a true hidden treasure!
🚶♀️ Walk Through History
This gate is a key part of Taormina's medieval fortifications. Imagine centuries of history as you pass through.
📸 Capture the Moment
The gate and the adjacent piazza offer beautiful photo opportunities, especially with the coastal backdrop.
🎶 Enjoy the Vibe
The area around the tower is often lively with music and local life, creating a festive atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Torre dell'Orologio a charming and historically significant gateway to medieval Taormina. The unexpected Byzantine mosaic within the archway is a frequently praised highlight, offering a beautiful glimpse into ancient art. While the gate itself is always accessible, the surrounding piazza provides a lively atmosphere and great views.
"The Clock Tower is a gate that marks the entrance to the medieval part of Taormina. It is a 12th-century building, although other buildings probably predate it, dating back to the Roman era. The clock was added during repairs to the tower in 1679. The Tower is also called Porta di Mezzo (Middle Gate) since it is located approximately in the middle of the city's historical route from Porta Messina to Porta Catania. It was part of Taormina's medieval fortifications. Passing under the gate from Piazza IX Aprile, notice in an arched recess on your left the exceptionally preserved Byzantine mosaic. It depicts the Virgin Mary seated, with the Christ Child in her lap. The colors are bright and vibrant. I don't know, but while passing by I saw it unexpectedly because I didn't know it existed and I really felt a warm feeling of pride wash over me. Beautiful!"
John D
"Spring music what else do you expect."
dimitris syropoulos
"one of the most captivating places I have ever been to"
Mohammed Al-R
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Torre dell'Orologio, also known as Porta di Mezzo, is centrally located in Taormina's historic center. It's easily accessible on foot from most accommodations within the town. If arriving by bus or taxi, it's a short walk from the main drop-off points.
Yes, the tower is situated on the main historical route through Taormina, connecting Porta Messina and Porta Catania. It's adjacent to the vibrant Piazza IX Aprile, making it a convenient stop while exploring the town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, passing through Torre dell'Orologio (Porta di Mezzo) is free as it's a historic gate and part of the town's public space. You can walk through it anytime.
The gate itself is always open as it's a passage through the medieval walls. The surrounding Piazza IX Aprile is also accessible at all hours, though shops and cafes will have their own operating times.
While the gate is always accessible, climbing the clock tower itself may not always be an option for visitors. Information on tower access can vary, so it's best to check locally if this is a priority.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities include the gate itself, the Byzantine mosaic within the archway, and the panoramic views from the adjacent Piazza IX Aprile. Capturing the interplay of light and shadow on the ancient stone is also rewarding.
Daylight hours offer the best illumination for the mosaic and the surrounding architecture. Early morning or late afternoon can provide softer light and fewer crowds for more serene shots.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
Torre dell'Orologio, or Porta di Mezzo, is a 12th-century gate that was part of Taormina's medieval fortifications. The clock was added in 1679. It served as a crucial entrance to the walled city.
The mosaic, depicting the Virgin Mary and Christ Child, is a rare and exceptionally preserved example of Byzantine art found within an arched recess of the gate. Its vibrant colors are remarkable.
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