Castroreale​

By Dion Protani
Latest update: 23 October 2023
The town of Castroreale is situated within the Metropolitan City of Messina province and has a population of around 2,300.

It stands at an elevation of 394 metres above sea level and is included in the list of Borghi Più Belli d'Italia (most beautiful villages in Italy). Places of interest nearby include Milazzo, Novara di Sicilia, Oliveri and the Sanctuary of Tindari. 
Related links
Profile
Castroreale is a picturesque town located in the province of Messina in Sicily, Italy. Situated on a hilltop at an altitude of about 560 meters, Castroreale offers visitors stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and a rich historical heritage that dates back to ancient times.
History
The history of Castroreale dates back to ancient times when it was originally settled by the Sicels, an ancient indigenous population of Sicily. Later, it came under the influence of various civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, and Normans.

During the medieval period, Castroreale flourished as an important center for trade and agriculture, and its strategic position on a hilltop made it a natural defensive stronghold.
Highlights and nearby attractions
  • Historic Centre: Castroreale's historic centre is a delightful maze of narrow alleys, ancient buildings, and charming squares. Visitors can explore medieval churches, noble palaces, and traditional houses.
  • Castroreale Cathedral: The town's main attraction is the Castroreale Cathedral, also known as the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta. The cathedral features impressive Baroque architecture and houses valuable artworks.
  • Views and Photography: Castroreale offers some of the most breathtaking views in Sicily, making it a perfect destination for photography enthusiasts.
  • Local Cuisine: Castroreale offers a taste of authentic Sicilian cuisine at local trattorias and restaurants, where visitors can savor regional dishes and local specialties.
  • Festivals and Events: The town celebrates various traditional festivals throughout the year, allowing tourists to experience local customs, music, and culinary delights.
  • Nearby Attractions: Castroreale is located near other charming towns and attractions, such as Montalbano Elicona and the stunning Nebrodi Mountains, offering additional opportunities for exploration and outdoor activities.
Comune di Castroreale
Province: Metropolitan City of Messina​

Region: Sicily

Population: 2,264 (in 2024 - source)

​​​Size: 53 km²

Elevation: 394 metres

​Close by: Milazzo, Novara di Sicilia, Oliveri, Sanctuary of Tindari

Recommended accommodation: Hotel ​Medici (19 km)
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)

Listing headline: La Fedelissima degli Aragonesi (The Most Loyal of the Aragonese)

​Castroreale​  Gallery

SITE SEARCH

If you want to find a page quickly and you're not sure where to look you can use the Site Search box below and it'll point you in the right direction. 

YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO ITALY

Italy Review is an independent guide to Italy, showcasing the very best that the country has to offer. Throughout the four thousand pages of the website you'll find comprehensive tourist information, opinion and original photos.

​Alongside the major tourist destinations that you've already heard of, there are thousands of others that may come as a surprise with the intention of the website to provide inspiration for your future trips to the country. 

The photos and descriptions on the website are all my own work and are the fruit of my extensive travels around the country. I've visited every place that's listed on the website which means I'm able to give useful advice for first-time visitors. 

​You can keep in touch with the latest developments in Italy via my Italy Review Blog for which you'll find links below to the Facebook and Twitter pages. 

If you'd just like to start your exploration of Italy with some ideas of places to go then I'd recommend starting at the highlighted must see Italy page.  Or using the grid to your right you can click a photo to enter  the main menus.                 
Booking.com

THE ITALY REVIEW NETWORK SISTER SITES:

​All photos and images on the site that are marked with the © copyright symbol or with the Italy Review series logos are the property of Italy Review and must not be used elsewhere without prior permission. All written content on the website is also the property of Italy Review and its use is strictly limited to this website alone.