Sacrario di Cristo Re (Shrine of Christ the King), Messina (must see)

Shrine of Christ the King is a prominent landmark perched atop a hill that offers panoramic views of the city and its harbor. Constructed in 1937, this neo-Baroque edifice stands on the historical site of the former Rocca Guelfonia, a Norman castle associated with Richard the Lionheart.

Designed by architect Giovanni Battista Milani, the church features an octagonal layout crowned by a substantial dome adorned with eight bronze statues representing theological and cardinal virtues, as well as an allegory of Religion. The entrance staircase is graced by a statue of Christ the King, sculpted by Tore Edmondo Calabrò.

Serving as a military memorial, the temple's crypt houses the remains of approximately 1,288 soldiers who perished during the World Wars, including 161 unidentified individuals. Adjacent to the church stands a notable bell tower, featuring a 130-quintal bronze bell cast from melted enemy cannons. This bell, one of the largest in Italy, tolls at sunset to honor the fallen of all wars.

Visitors to the Tempio Votivo di Cristo Re can not only appreciate its architectural grandeur and historical significance but also enjoy sweeping vistas of Messina and the Strait of Messina from its elevated vantage point.