Castle of Caronia

Caronia it is a town populated by approximately 3 thousand inhabitants in the Metropolitan City of Messina, overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea and backed by Nebrodi Park, enjoying one of the most spectacular views of the island: here, at a height of approximately 350 meters above sea level, stands the Castle of Caronia, which admires the sea and dominates the town below, opens up a view of the Caronia stream and looks up to the Castles of Tusa and Serravalle.

The history of Caronia Castle

If the view from the fortress is fascinating in every direction, the History of the Castle is no different: the fort was born in a strategic position, around the XNUMXth century, when the height of the hill allowed the Castle to perfectly carry out its defensive function, sighting. The excellent climate and the conformation of the hill also allowed the development of the village along the sides of the hill, protected by the Castle.

The restoration interventions that have followed one another over time, including the last ones between 1965 and 1970, have allowed the Caronia Castle to reach the present day in perfect condition, re-evaluating both the Norman structural interventions and the emblazoned decorations of the families noblemen who have owned the walls of the Castle over the centuries.

Today you can visit the Castle to admire its structure, but also various works of art and artefacts kept inside, dating back to past eras, starting from the XNUMXth century.

The architecture of Caronia Castle and what it houses

The structure of Caronia Castle faithfully follows the conformation of the hill, fortified by medieval walls and towers. The entrance is located on the eastern side, with the only door that allows entry into the fortress from the outside.

The south-facing side is the one from which the Clock tower, while on the opposite side stands a chapel, whose history is rather controversial.

The central building of the fort, with a rectangular plan, dates back to the Norman era and is composed of two superimposed floors, to which some foreparts, also with two floors, were later added. The surfaces of the entire structure are covered with the typical medieval brick, while the main portal of the building is ogee-shaped and from the upper floors it is possible to observe the beautiful mullioned windows that illuminate the interior, made up of various rooms, with barrel roofs and niches.

What to do at Caronia Castle

Those who love history, art and architecture, arriving in Caronia, will not be able to resist starting the tour of the area right from the Castle: stairs, cisterns, niches, walls, towers and interesting finds await you, to tell you a long story that began in the Middle Ages. Discover it at the Castle, before continuing the tour of the historic center.

The Castle of Caronia is located about 1 km north of the centre, towards the sea: another wonderful spectacle that this area offers visitors, to be discovered slowly, observing it from the heights of the town, until reaching it on the beach.

In Caronia, it is precisely nature that offers the most fascinating views, such as those of Nebrodi Mountains, also called Monti Caronie.

From the town, it is also possible to reach interesting nearby destinations, such as San Fratello, Santo Stefano di Camastra e Marina di Caronia, right on the sea.

San Fratello can be called, without fear of contradiction, the town of churches: there are over 30 of them, including larger buildings such as the Matrix and the smaller minor churches; in Santo Stefano di Camastra you will find, in addition to the churches, also several museums and the Fiumara d'Arte route, with many works of art displayed outdoors; the Marina di Caronia is a stretch of coast characterized by rocks and pebbles, perfect for lovers of scuba diving and snorkelling.

How to get to Caronia Castle

Caronia is located in the Metropolitan City of Messina: to reach the town, choose between the car and the train, both perfect ways to get to the centre.
In the car, take the A20 Messina-Buonfornello and take the exit for Santo Stefano di Camastra, about 10 km away, while on the train, the closest station is S. Agata di Militello, from which you can take buses or shuttles that will take you to the centre, 17 km away.