Astronomical clock in Messina

The bell tower houses 54 mechanical bronze figures arranged in carousels across multiple levels, displaying time and astronomical movements through intricate mechanisms.

The Ungerer Company of Strasbourg constructed this mechanical marvel between 1930 and 1933, following designs by architect Francesco Valenti after the 1908 earthquake.

The clock features allegorical Greek figures representing each day, with Apollo for Sunday and Diana for Monday, alongside four stages of life passing before death.

Visitors can observe the complete mechanical animation display at noon daily, when all figures move in sequence accompanied by Schubert's Ave Maria.

The eastern facade displays astronomical mechanisms including moon phases and a planetarium, while the western side presents a perpetual calendar marking 365 days.

Location: Messina

Inception: January 1, 1933

Fee: Yes

Charge: 5 EUR

Phone: +39090675175

GPS coordinates: 38.19230,15.55470

Latest update: May 10, 2025 20:48