Sacrario di Cristo Re (Shrine of Christ the King), Messina (must see)

The Shrine of Christ the King stands on one of Messina’s most panoramic hills, overlooking the city, its natural harbor and the Strait of Messina. The site has a much longer history than the present church: it was once occupied by Roccaguelfonia Castle, a medieval fortress traditionally associated with Richard the Lionheart, who stayed in Messina while traveling to the Third Crusade.

Much of the fortress was destroyed by the devastating 1908 earthquake, and the present shrine was later constructed on its former grounds. Completed in 1937, the monumental Neo-Baroque church has an octagonal plan crowned by a large dome. Around the dome stand eight bronze statues representing the theological and cardinal virtues, together with an allegorical figure of Religion. At the entrance, a monumental staircase is dominated by a statue of Christ the King by Tore Edmondo Calabrò.

The shrine also serves as a military memorial. Its crypt contains the remains of approximately 1,288 soldiers who died during the World Wars, including 161 unidentified soldiers. A marble sarcophagus surmounted by the figure of a fallen soldier, created by Messina sculptor Antonio Bonfiglio, further emphasizes its commemorative purpose.

Beside the shrine stands an octagonal tower surviving from the former castle. According to historical tradition, Charles II of Anjou, known as “the Lame,” was imprisoned here in 1284 after being captured in battle.

The tower also supports the enormous Great Bell, installed in 1935 and cast from bronze taken from enemy cannons captured during World War I. Weighing approximately 13 tons, it traditionally tolls at sunset in remembrance of those who died in war.

For visitors, the elevated terrace is another major attraction, offering spectacular views over Messina, its harbor, the Strait of Messina and the Calabrian coast.