Messina & The Riace Bronzes
KEY DETAILS
Departing from
Duration
Overall Driving Time
Highlights
General Information
Crossing Time and Sea: A Cultural Journey through Messina, the Strait, and the Treasures of Reggio Calabria
Nestled at the northeastern tip of Sicily, Messina stands as a guardian of the Strait that bears its name—the Strait of Messina—a natural boundary that has long served as both a barrier and a bridge between worlds. From its scenic views to its deep-rooted heritage, this corner of the Mediterranean offers travelers not just stunning panoramas, but a profound sense of connection to layers of ancient history and enduring culture.
Originally founded by Greek colonists in the 8th century BC and named Zancle—“sickle” in Greek, a reference to the shape of its natural harbor—Messina has long held a strategic position at the crossroads of civilizations. Renamed Messene by Anaxilas of Rhegium in the early 5th century BC, the city witnessed centuries of conquest and renewal: from Carthaginian sackings to Roman alliances, from Byzantine to Arab dominion, and the arrival of the Norman Guiscard brothers in 1061. During the Spanish rule in the early 1600s, Messina reached a golden age, becoming one of the ten most important cities in Europe.
Tragically, the city was devastated by the catastrophic earthquake and tsunami of 1908, which claimed thousands of lives and destroyed much of its ancient architecture. It was rebuilt with resilience, only to suffer further damage during the Allied bombings of 1943. And yet, Messina endures—today offering not only historical intrigue but local experience, traditional Sicilian food, and coastal drives with breathtaking sea views.
Just across the shimmering strait lies Reggio Calabria, home to one of Italy’s greatest archaeological treasures: the Riace Bronzes (Bronzi di Riace). Housed in the renowned Archaeological Museum of Reggio Calabria, these two full-size bronze statues of bearded Greek warriors are among the most astonishing art masterpieces to have survived from antiquity. Cast between 460 and 420 BC and recovered from the sea in 1972 by an amateur diver, their lifelike forms and haunting presence evoke the lost world of classical Greece.
Scholars believe they were created by two different artists—possibly Myron and Alkamenes, a student of Phidias—and debate continues about their original context and intended placement. Their indirect bronze casting technique, used instead of the direct method, speaks to the sophistication of ancient craftsmanship. As icons of Greece’s artistic legacy and Calabria’s cultural pride, they continue to fascinate art historians and casual visitors alike.
Traveling between these two historic cities offers not only a window into the ancient Mediterranean, but also a tailor-made experience of modern comfort and personalized service. With a chauffeur-driven, English-speaking driver, guests can enjoy door-to-door service, luxury vehicles, and the ease of hassle-free travel. From pickup and drop-off to a flexible itinerary, every element of a full-day excursion can be curated for those seeking immersion in cultural highlights, with the convenience and elegance of exclusive tours.
Whether you're fascinated by Sicily’s layered past, drawn to the elegance of the Riace warriors, or simply seeking to experience the soul of southern Italy at a relaxed pace, this coastal passage between Messina and Reggio Calabria offers more than a journey—it offers a story. One told through sea and stone, bronze and memory, and the timeless beauty of Italian culture.
About the tour
Our tour focuses on culture, comfort, and breathtaking scenery, connecting the historic heart of Messina with the coastal charm of Reggio Calabria, all in the company of a professional English-speaking driver.
This full-day private excursion (up to 8 hours) offers the perfect balance of relaxation and cultural discovery. Enjoy between 2 and 3.5 hours of guided moments with your chauffeur, who will share local insights, historical highlights, and fascinating commentary throughout the scenic drive. While the tour doesn’t include a separate licensed guide, our experienced driver ensures a hassle-free, informative journey filled with captivating stories and regional knowledge.
Your journey begins in Messina, Sicily’s northeastern gateway to the Mediterranean.
✨ Where history meets resilience.
Founded by Greek settlers in the 8th century BC and shaped by centuries of conquest, Messina is rich in architectural beauty and layered with cultural heritage. Your first stop will be at the Shrine of Cristo Re, a baroque temple built on the ruins of the Matagrifone Castle. From its panoramic terrace, enjoy stunning views over the Strait and the city’s natural harbor, shaped like a sickle—a nod to its ancient Greek name, Zancle.
Next, we move to Piazza Duomo to admire the 12th-century Cathedral and its bell tower, home to the largest astronomical clock in the world. Every day at noon, animated mechanical statues bring to life scenes from Messina’s civil and religious history—an unforgettable experience.
After this spectacle, we embark on a ferry for the short but scenic 25-minute crossing of the Strait of Messina. As you step out onto the ferry deck, enjoy a peaceful and romantic view over the waters once feared for the mythical monsters Scylla and Charybdis, now tamed into a place of beauty and reflection.
Upon arrival in Reggio Calabria:
✨ Where ancient bronze meets modern beauty.
You may stop for lunch along the waterfront promenade, with its palm trees and views back to Sicily. The highlight here is a visit to the National Archaeological Museum, home to the Riace Bronzes—two full-size bronze statues of Greek warriors cast between 460 and 420 BC. Described by scholar Salvatore Settis as “more beautiful than anything in the Athens museums,” these masterpieces are unmatched in their harmony of classical beauty and masculine power. Their mysterious origin and exceptional artistry have amazed scholars and visitors since their discovery in 1972.
Along the way, take in traditional Sicilian food, regional stories, and coastal landscapes with commentary from your driver. Travel in style with a luxury, chauffeur-driven vehicle, complete with door-to-door service and flexible itinerary options to suit your pace. From the Strait of Messina’s shimmering waters to the cultural treasures of Calabria, this is a tailor-made experience that blends the best of history, comfort, and discovery.
Historical informations
What is included in the “Messina & The Riace Bronzes” tour?
- Visit to Messina city highlights: Cristo Re shrine overlooking the Strait, the 12th-century Cathedral with the largest astronomical clock in the world.
- Ferry crossing from Messina to Reggio Calabria (Italian mainland).
- Guided visit to the Museo Nazionale della Magna Grecia in Reggio Calabria to see the Riace Bronzes.
- English-speaking driver and guide throughout the tour.
- Pickup and drop-off in Sicily, with hotel or dock service within Taormina, Giardini Naxos, and nearby areas
How long is the tour, and what is the total duration (pickup to drop-off)?
- The itinerary is a full-day trip, typically lasting around 8 hours from pickup to drop-off.
- Suggested start early morning (e.g., around 8:00-9:00 AM) with return in the evening by about 5 or 6 PM
Is transportation by private car or van with an English-speaking driver included?
- Yes, transportation is by private car or van with an English-speaking driver-guide included as part of the tour package.
Which hotels or pickup points in Sicily (e.g., Taormina, Giardini Naxos, Messina) are covered?
- Pickup is available within a 10-km radius of Taormina and Giardini Naxos.
- Pickup in Catania, Siracusa and Messina is also possible, usually from central locations or docks
What is the cancellation policy and are there any age or group size restrictions?
- Cancellation is generally free up to 72 hours before the tour.
- The tour is private and can accommodate small groups up to about 8 people.
- Wheelchair and stroller access is available.
- No specific age restrictions, but children should be supervised due to the day-long itinerary.
What time does the tour start and roughly when will we return?
- Typically starts in the morning around 8:00 or 9:00 AM.
- Return is usually in the late afternoon or early evening, between 5 and 6pm.
Can we leave luggage in the vehicle when we take the ferry to Calabria?
- Yes, you stay with your vehicle during the short ferry crossing and can leave luggage inside safely; you have time to go up to the deck during the 25-minute ride.
Is the 25-minute ferry crossing between Messina and Reggio Calabria included?
- Yes, the ferry crossing is included as part of the tour and transportation logistics1.
Do we need to bring our passports or IDs for the ferry crossing?
- The crossing is domestic (Sicily to mainland Italy), so no passport or ID checks are normally required for EU citizens.
- However, carrying an ID is recommended as a general travel precaution.
Is lunch included, or will there be a stop in Reggio Calabria before visiting the museum?
- Lunch is not included, but there is typically a stop at local eateries or along the Reggio Calabria seafront where you can buy a meal before the museum visit.
What are the main sights in Messina—will we visit the cathedral and astronomical clock?
- Yes, the tour includes a visit to the Messina Cathedral (Duomo) and its astronomical clock, with time to watch the animated statues at noon.
Is there time to see other sites in Messina, like Cristo Re shrine or WWII memorials?
- Yes, the Cristo Re shrine and the WWII memorials are part of the itinerary with a scenic panoramic view over the Strait of Messina1.
How much time do we have at the Museo Nazionale della Magna Grecia in Reggio Calabria?
- Visitors usually have about 1 to 2 hours to visit the museum and the Riace Bronzes exhibit, enough to explore the bronzes in detail and other Greek archaeological artifacts.
Can we take photos of the Riace Bronzes, and are cameras allowed?
- Photography is generally permitted inside the museum, although professional photography or flash may not be allowed.
- Visitors should confirm any restrictions with museum staff on arrival.
What are the Riace Bronzes and why are they so significant?
- The Riace Bronzes are two rare, large Greek bronze statues from the 5th century BC.
- They represent a pinnacle of classical Greek artistry, famous for their realistic detail and mysterious history.
- They are considered some of the finest surviving classical bronzes globally, held at the Museo Nazionale della Magna Grecia.
How old are the statues and who might have created them?
- Approximately 2,500 years old, dating from around 460-450 BC.
- Their creators remain unknown but are attributed to ancient Greek sculptors or workshops from the Classical period.
Why were they found in the sea near Riace, and what is known about their discovery in 1972?
- The bronzes were discovered submerged off the coast near Riace in 1972 by a diver.
- They were likely lost overboard from a Roman ship transporting them, preserving them underwater for nearly two millennia.
What does Museo Nazionale della Magna Grecia offer beyond the Bronzes?
- Besides the Riace Bronzes, the museum holds extensive collections of Magna Graecia artifacts.
- Exhibits explore Greek influence on southern Italy, including pottery, sculpture, and archaeological finds from the region.
Is the tour wheelchair-accessible, on ferry and at the museum?
- Yes, the tour and the Museo Nazionale della Magna Grecia are wheelchair accessible.
- The ferry crossing also accommodates passengers with mobility needs.
What’s the best time of year or day to visit for fewer crowds?
- Early morning tours during the low-season months (spring or autumn) usually have fewer crowds.
- Avoiding mid-day and summer peak hours is recommended for a more relaxed experience.
Should we bring comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing?
- Yes, comfortable walking shoes are advised.
- Dress according to the weather as parts of the tour involve outdoor sightseeing and walking around historic sites.
Is there free Wi‑Fi or restrooms available during the tour and at sites?
- Museum and ferry terminals generally have restrooms.
- Wi-Fi availability varies; some public areas may offer free Wi-Fi, but it is not guaranteed throughout the tour7.
Is gratuity expected for the driver/guide? What is customary?
- Gratuity is not mandatory but appreciated.
- Typical tipping ranges between 10% of the tour cost for excellent service.
Can we combine this tour with visits to Taormina or other nearby attractions?
- Pickup and drop-off in Taormina and Giardini Naxos areas support combining visits to these destinations before or after the tour, extending and customizing the tour.
Are there options for a longer stay in Reggio Calabria or side visits to Scilla?
- Yes, longer stays or extended itineraries including nearby Scilla village and other Calabrian attractions can be arranged separately.
Do we get free time in Reggio Calabria to explore or eat locally?
- Free time is usually allocated for lunch or a stroll along the Reggio Calabria seafront before or after the museum visit.
What's included
You may also like
