Locadi: History, Townscape and Getting There

Locadi can be explored through its historic sites, townscape and connections to Messina. Piazza San Giovanni is the centre of the district. The foundations of Locadi Cathedral are on Via Duomo, while Strada Mulino runs close to the Pagliara stream. If you are looking for a hotel in Locadi, you can plan your visit by deciding whether to focus primarily on its history, the character of its street network or how to get there.

Historical Traces in Locadi

Ruins at Piazza San Giovanni may be even older than the foundations of the cathedral. According to local tradition, those foundations date back to the year 1000. This leaves two historical clues side by side: a date is recorded for the foundations, while the possibility that the ruins are older remains just that—a possibility. The two accounts differ in emphasis: one gives a traditional date, the other suggests a possible earlier origin.

A 16th-century tower stands on Via Margherita. It provides another historical reference point, distinct from the tradition surrounding the cathedral and the possible comparison with the older ruins. The Church of Saints Peter and Paul and John the Baptist adds to the historic sites. The municipality lists free admission; if you are planning a visit, please check in advance when the church is open.

Mill, River and Town Layout

Strada Mulino runs close to the Pagliara stream. The best-preserved mill in the municipality of Pagliara stands along the road. A little further on, beyond the mill and near the stream, is the ancient Church of Santa Caterina. Here, the connection with the river brings together two historic buildings of different kinds.

Locadi’s historic street network consists of narrow lanes with an irregular layout. The piazza marks the centre, while Via Duomo, Via Margherita and Strada Mulino locate individual buildings; the lanes define the course of the historic street network. As you get to know Locadi, you can consider this layout as an aspect in its own right, alongside the individual buildings.

Getting There and Route Planning

Interurban bus services connect Messina with Locadi. Check the latest timetable before travelling and plan your journey using the information for your travel date. The bus connection relates to getting to Locadi; the historic sites, by contrast, provide the thematic setting for your stay.

A described 12 km variant of the Cammino della Bellezza heads towards Locadi and continues to the Pineta di Furci Siculo suburban park. The route is still described as being in the planning phase. So, before planning to use it, check whether it is available yet. The 12 km figure describes the length of this variant; its planning phase should also be taken into account.

Discover more destinations: Giardini Naxos, Tripi, Moio Alcantara, Leni, Savoca, Scafa, Cesarò, Pollara.

Go to the main travel overview: Messina.