Founded as a Greek colony in the 8th century B.C., Messina became a major port and commercial center during the Roman Empire. Then during the Middle Ages it was the major port of departure for Crusaders. Today, this charming city entices tourists with its historical settings, including a museum with works by Caravaggio, mountainous scenery, plus the active Stromboli volcano and the town’s cathedral, whose bell tower serves up an animated retelling of the town’s history every day at noon. Don’t miss the hill-top town of Taormina, where visitors experience amazing views of the snowcapped Mount Etna.