Messina formalizes its candidacy as Italian Capital of the Sea 2026. The municipal council has approved the “Messina Capital of the Two Seas” dossier, formally starting the process that aims to obtain national recognition and the ministerial contribution of one million euros intended for the valorization of the coast.
The announcement was made by Mayor Federico Basile, who underlined how the candidacy is part of the recent results achieved by the city, starting from the achievement of the Blue Flag. The objective of the project is to transform the Messina coast into a hub of culture, innovation and sustainable development, combining environmental protection and economic growth.
The dossier is based on a strategic plan that integrates advanced technologies and safeguarding local traditions. Among the qualifying points is the creation of the “Diffuse Museum of the Straits”, a system for enjoying the marine and submerged heritage which will make use of virtual and augmented reality to make historical and naturalistic contents accessible also through digital tools.
Ample space is reserved for the valorization of the identity assets of the territory. The historic feluccas of the Strait, symbol of traditional swordfish fishing, will be converted into real operational cultural infrastructures, becoming “living museums” capable of passing on technical knowledge and artisan practices linked to the sea.
On the protection and quality front, the project also provides for the start of the process for the recognition of the STG (Traditional Specialty Guaranteed) brand for Strait swordfish. A strategic step to protect the commercial and restaurant supply chain and strengthen the local gastronomic identity.