Thursday, April 12, 2012

Thursday, April 12, 2012–Day 97–Messina, Italy

Overnight we left the Greek Islands and the Aegean Sea behind us and re-entered the Mediterranean Sea docking in Messina, Italy at 10:00am at Colapesce Pier.  This beautiful gold statue of Benedicimus greeted us is the peninsula harbor. 

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From the beautiful harbor we could see most of the landmarks, but decided to ride the Hop On – Hop Off bus with Lawrence and Tricia.

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Messina has a lot of charm.  In 1908 an earthquake, and later wartime fires, nearly destroyed this quaint town of 250,000.

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The highlight is the Orologio Astronomico (astronomical  clock) in the bell tower.  Built in Strasbourg, it was installed in 1933.  The elaborate timepiece presents a full show at noon!  Gold figures pop out and spin, like a music box.

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The Orion Fountain dates from 1547.

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We enjoyed a beverage at an outside café, then headed back to the ship for an afternoon nap!  We are now sailing to Naples.

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