Castello di Milazzo

Milazzo


Originally the site of a Greek acropolis, then an Arab-Norman citadel, Milazzo's enormous castle was built by Frederick II in 1239, expanded by Charles V of Aragon and stormed by Garibaldi's troops in 1860. The whole of Milazzo once fitted within its massive walls. Nowadays it's a lovely site to clamber around, full of flowers and crumbling fortifications, with dreamy views of the bay and the Aeolians from atop the Torre Normanna, the castle's oldest and highest part.

The castle grounds, enclosed within late-15th-century Aragonese outer walls, contain the city's Duomo Vecchio (old cathedral) and the ruins of the Palazzo dei Giurati (the old town hall). To get here, climb the Salita Castello, which rises up through the atmospheric old town. Guided tours (available in English with advance notice) are offered at 4.30pm on Sunday afternoons throughout the summer.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Milazzo attractions

1. Antiquarium di Milazzo

0.37 MILES

Housed just below the castle in the 16th-century Quartiere degli Spagnoli defensive barracks, this 10-room museum displays treasures dating from neolithic…

3. Capo Milazzo

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If you have a car, don't miss the scenic drive north along Strada Panoramica to see the gorgeous, rugged coastline of Capo Milazzo. At the end of the…

4. Spiaggia di Oliveri

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In the town of Oliveri, just below the ancient settlement of Tyndaris, this sandy stretch of beach makes a good place for a swim, with a series of lidos…

5. Santuario della Madonna del Tindari

12.29 MILES

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6. Tyndaris

12.38 MILES

This ancient Greek holy place was founded by Dionysis of Syracuse after his victory over the Carthaginians in 396 BC. The secluded ruins (a basilica, an…

7. Spiaggia dell’Asino

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One of two small black-sand beaches on the island's southern side near Gelso, this crescent of black sand gives onto inviting waters.

8. Spiaggia Cannitello

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This beach, one of two small black-sand stretches on the island's southern side near Gelso, is surrounded by lush, almost tropical greenery.

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