Fountain of Orion
A magnificent 16th-century Renaissance fountain in Messina, Sicily, adorned with mythological figures and a testament to historical artistry.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See the clock's ritual
Fountain of Orion
Best Time
See the clock's ritual
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent 16th-century Renaissance fountain in Messina, Sicily, adorned with mythological figures and a testament to historical artistry.
"A marvelous work of art and craftsmanship, definitely worth seeing and photographing."
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture the fountain with the cathedral in the background for a stunning shot.
🕰️ Clock Spectacle
Don't miss the midday show at the astronomical clock next door!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Orion Fountain
Piazza del Duomo
A stunning Renaissance fountain adorned with mythological figures and mythical creatures.
Astronomical Clock Ritual
Messina Cathedral (adjacent)
Witness the midday spectacle of the astronomical clock's animated figures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
A Piece of History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture the fountain with the cathedral in the background for a stunning shot.
🕰️ Clock Spectacle
Don't miss the midday show at the astronomical clock next door!
🚶♂️ Explore Piazza del Duomo
The fountain is a centerpiece of this vibrant square.
💧 Admire Craftsmanship
Built in the 16th century, it's a marvel of art and engineering.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture the fountain with the cathedral in the background for a stunning shot.
🕰️ Clock Spectacle
Don't miss the midday show at the astronomical clock next door!
🚶♂️ Explore Piazza del Duomo
The fountain is a centerpiece of this vibrant square.
💧 Admire Craftsmanship
Built in the 16th century, it's a marvel of art and engineering.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Fountain of Orion as a beautiful and historically significant landmark in Messina. Its intricate Renaissance design and mythological sculptures are a major draw, especially when viewed alongside the adjacent Messina Cathedral and its famous astronomical clock. The midday clock ritual is a highlight for many, offering a unique spectacle. While the fountain itself is a public monument, its charm lies in its artistry and its central role in the vibrant Piazza del Duomo.
"ME - in Turi Fontana d'Orione 1547 a of the Senate confert sculptor · Florence, 1563), to erect u a Deeme, 11th of Cámalon for the da si, on the innovative estates a mei and on the study and statuary carried out by Pope Clement VIL of the al- الح·ورمmes·····Messinadellocultorel.Montanini, expressed in others such as Lanterns of 5. Ranieri in the area the Apostolate and the Unita Deomo, was really the determining fountain Neptune in the local plastic square, Ancota delayed Gaginian models. In order to position the source of Orion, completed as attested by the one in the gallery below, it became necessary the Church of St. rebuilt from the same to 1557, opposite the bell tower, destroyed by the earthquake 1783 The Doctes of the F. Maurolico, to which the distici are verbally at the base of the conaplessa amidal structure, animated to the topa tied and -particular dedicated to Orion, mythical founder Ji Topera, colcapo facing east the beaccio the left on A sequence the 4th to the bas-relief, cariatids, marines, đi and putts to dolphins, it was now . decoration three receive the water 44 ل la The tank with đi almost got established on here high base and is joined by four personification tanks of the Ebeos and whose complete supply of the Illesa during the fountain registered substantial damage 1908 and subsequently divirsi in the 1990s the source · đi ap- produced propedeutic investigations to - te Intervention Superintendence of a n and concluded "95. The Fountain df In 1547 a docréy 어 the Senate → […]][ina gave the nculpter Angrie Montorsoli - the · in Piessa del to celebrate the aqueduct of To plaque - the 여 it completed archival in to 1553, altested by the of the St. Laurence, by the send of the Senate spesite the bell toucr, destroyed is The learned information of Abbot / to what - FOU the couples embedded in the edge of the find hear, are and the horment of the complexes pyremid by ESMETURS mythological imeges mainly related to the Irration of the and ticularly to Orien, The Wythical of Messina, фо sarmounts the anerd, areak his facing newth east the · forge es the arch ملط raised, the right the dagSorias at his fort. The heelve-side diemeter 이 set carred is put beside torped I'l of the and Comere, supplemented by the late lasting the fowntein recorded de- and the Newnich wer to de mical and - of and in "95."
仲田露武
"Beautiful place if you are there at noon to see the ritual of the astrological clock"
A P
"I live in the Province of Messina so visit the city often and on every occasion I see this marvelous work of art and craftsmanship I am overwhelmed. Located in the heart of Messina it is definitely worth seeing and photographing. Built in the 16th century, it survived the devastating 1908 earthquake."
Jeanne maria Griffin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Fountain of Orion is located in Piazza del Duomo, the heart of Messina, Sicily. It's easily accessible on foot if you're exploring the city center. Many visitors arrive by public transport to the nearby Messina Port or train station and then walk.
Parking in the immediate vicinity of Piazza del Duomo can be challenging due to its central location. It's recommended to use public parking garages on the outskirts of the city center and walk, or utilize public transportation.
Yes, Messina has a public bus system, and many routes will take you close to the city center and Piazza del Duomo. Trams are also a convenient option for reaching the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Fountain of Orion is a public monument located in Piazza del Duomo and is free to view and admire from the outside.
As an outdoor monument, the Fountain of Orion is accessible at all times. However, the best experience is during daylight hours to appreciate its details and the surrounding piazza.
The Piazza del Duomo itself is a public square and does not have an entrance fee. You can freely explore the area and admire the fountain and the cathedral.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Fountain of Orion is a significant 16th-century Renaissance fountain featuring intricate sculptures of mythological figures. It's a beautiful work of art and a historical landmark in Messina.
Visiting at midday is highly recommended to witness the ritual of the astronomical clock at the adjacent Messina Cathedral. This is a unique and captivating experience.
The statues depict mythological figures, including Orion himself, and personifications of rivers. They are part of the fountain's elaborate design celebrating the aqueduct and running water.
Absolutely! It's a beautiful piece of art and history, and its location in Piazza del Duomo makes it a central point of interest in Messina.
The Fountain of Orion is located in Piazza del Duomo, right next to the stunning Messina Cathedral, which houses the famous astronomical clock. You can also explore the surrounding historic streets.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the fountain with the Messina Cathedral and its astronomical clock in the background for a classic shot. Midday offers dynamic light, while early mornings provide softer light and fewer crowds.
Early mornings offer beautiful soft light and fewer people, making it ideal for photography. Midday provides the opportunity to capture the clock's ritual, but can be crowded.
Try framing the fountain with the cathedral's facade. Getting a slightly elevated view can also help capture more of the fountain's intricate details and its placement in the piazza.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Make sure to time your visit to catch the clock's animated show, which is often a hit with children. The open piazza also provides space for kids to move around (under supervision, of course). Consider bringing snacks and water, as exploring the piazza can be a delightful part of a family day out in Messina.
📸 Photographers
The adjacent Messina Cathedral and its astronomical clock add another layer of photographic interest. Capturing the fountain with the cathedral as a backdrop is a must. If you're there at midday, try to photograph the clock's ritual, though be mindful of crowds. Experiment with different angles, from ground level to slightly elevated viewpoints, to showcase the fountain's grandeur and its place within the piazza.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of the Fountain of Orion
Despite its historical significance, the fountain has faced challenges. It sustained substantial damage during the devastating 1908 earthquake but was later restored in the 1990s. This resilience adds another layer to its narrative, showcasing its enduring presence in the heart of Messina.
Visitors are encouraged to take their time to appreciate the fine details of the sculptures, from the dynamic poses of the figures to the playful putti riding dolphins. It's a piece of art that rewards close observation and offers a glimpse into the artistic sensibilities of its era.
Experiencing the Piazza del Duomo
The piazza is most famous for the Messina Cathedral, which stands adjacent to the fountain. The cathedral houses an impressive astronomical clock, and witnessing its midday ritual is a must-do experience. The mechanical figures emerge and perform a short spectacle, adding a unique dimension to your visit to the piazza.
Beyond the fountain and cathedral, the Piazza del Duomo offers a chance to soak in the atmosphere of Messina. Enjoy a coffee at a nearby cafe, watch the world go by, or simply marvel at the blend of historical grandeur and everyday life that defines this lively public space.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit