Stele della Madonna della Lettera, Religious monument at Messina harbor, Italy.
The Stele della Madonna della Lettera is a bronze monument standing 7 meters tall atop a 60-meter column that overlooks the entrance to Messina's harbor. The base displays the Latin inscription 'VOS ET IPSAM CIVITATEM BENEDICIMUS' in large letters, clearly visible to approaching vessels.
The monument was designed by Francesco Barbaro and completed in 1934, rising from the 16th-century Forte del Santissimo Salvatore built during Emperor Charles V's reign. This layering of structures reflects centuries of maritime history in one location.
The statue shows the Madonna holding a letter in her left hand while blessing with her right hand toward ships entering and leaving the harbor. This imagery connects religious protection with the city's maritime identity.
The monument is visible from the harbor and can be viewed from various vantage points around the city, particularly from the waterfront promenade. The best views come from some distance away to appreciate the full height and proportions of the column.
A crystal replica of the statue was presented to Pope Pius XII, who later returned it to Messina where it remains in the Painiana library. This precious copy connects the spiritual devotion of the site with a valuable historical gift.
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