Palazzo Calapaj-d'Alcontres (Calapaj-Alcontres Palace), Messina
The Calapaj-Alcontres Palace is an elegant 18th-century building situated near the Messina Cathedral. Designed by an anonymous architect, the palace is a rare survivor of the 1908 earthquake, making it one of the few remaining examples of Messina’s aristocratic residential architecture.
The three-story façade is distinguished by its central floor, which is adorned with a decorative frame featuring acroteria and festoons, adding a touch of refined elegance to the structure. This stately residence once belonged to Messina’s wealthy noble class, offering a glimpse into the city’s opulent past.
The entrance of the palace is marked by an intricately designed wrought iron gate, leading visitors into a charming internal courtyard. A grand staircase, known for its scenic architectural effects, enhances the palace’s visual appeal.
Among its most notable artistic features is a bronze sculpture inspired by the famous Spinario (Young Man Extracting a Thorn from His Foot), attributed to Antonello Gagini, which once adorned the staircase.
The three-story façade is distinguished by its central floor, which is adorned with a decorative frame featuring acroteria and festoons, adding a touch of refined elegance to the structure. This stately residence once belonged to Messina’s wealthy noble class, offering a glimpse into the city’s opulent past.
The entrance of the palace is marked by an intricately designed wrought iron gate, leading visitors into a charming internal courtyard. A grand staircase, known for its scenic architectural effects, enhances the palace’s visual appeal.
Among its most notable artistic features is a bronze sculpture inspired by the famous Spinario (Young Man Extracting a Thorn from His Foot), attributed to Antonello Gagini, which once adorned the staircase.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Messina. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "911±¬ÁÏÍø: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Palazzo Calapaj-d'Alcontres (Calapaj-Alcontres Palace) on Map
Sight Name: Palazzo Calapaj-d'Alcontres (Calapaj-Alcontres Palace)
Sight Location: Messina, Italy (See walking tours in Messina)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Messina, Italy (See walking tours in Messina)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Messina, Italy
Create Your Own Walk in Messina
Creating your own self-guided walk in Messina is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Messina Introduction Walking Tour
Messina-where ancient history meets the sea! Founded way back in the 8th century BC by Greek colonists, it was originally called Zancle, thanks to the harbor’s uncanny resemblance to a sickle. Over time, the city grew into a Mediterranean superstar, strategically positioned on the Strait of Messina and playing a crucial role in Roman trade routes and the Punic Wars. After the Romans packed up,... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles

