978dianek
We enjoyed our visit to the castle. We were there for nearly two hours. We arrived by walking up the coastline past all of the fishing boats and the fishermen selling fresh fish. We walked up the road that indicated it led to the stairs to the castle. Lots of stairs - but a neat way to enter. The major signs were in English. In the small museum they did not have signage in English - but you could generally understand. There was also a very nice modern bathroom just inside the entry to the Duomo Antico. The views were great - but the highlight for us was the special mask exhibit in the building right before the castle (perhaps the monastery). The artist was there and provided explanations of the masks and his heritage (in Italian and French). We were able to interpret what he was saying and thoroughly enjoyed our time together. On the way back we headed downhill through the Old Town - which was an easier walk down then the walk up. Nice day!
patriciaw667
We found the castle by following the raid up the hill. We were the only tourists there on our visit which made it special for us. Breathtaking views of the sea and the islands. A very interesting gentleman took time to talk to us about the history of the performance and masks produced they produced for the spectacular shows they will be taking to New York !!
Virtualizatciya
Did not expect that the old castle would be so interesting to explore. Inside they even have a small museum. View from the roof is breathtaking!
Joolz_Bird
We arrived at around 1:00 and as per most things in Sicily they close for an extended lunch break and were advised that we would only have 30 minutes to view; so we decided to go back later that day arriving around 4:00 and what a gem. The site is extensive and as the sun was setting we had the opportunity to walk the outer walls and Citadel with two families it felt as if we had the site to ourselves. And with the sun setting we got to experience an atmospheric site steeped in history with very few out of bounds areas.Well worth a visit, with great views of Milazzo and the Isole Eolie.
YorkshireBoar
The citadel extends over a vast area, including a magnificent cathedral. The topmost buildings include Saracen walls and a Norman keep. There are three theatres or auditoria within the precinct. Allow lots of time. It closes at 1330 until after 1600. Evacuate when you hear the siren or you will be locked in!
josettee2014
We left from Messina to see the Castle, we waited for the bus to come and when we arrived to the castle the staff informed us that they were going to close in 30 mins and part of the castle is closed so it's not worth it to pay admission fee, also they told us that in 30 mins we will see nothing, they suggested that we go back at 4.30pm, we left very disappointed.
Baczo
Definitely worth seeing when you are in Milazzo. I recommend visiting it with a guide who can say few interesting stories about the castle and take to some interesting places you would probably miss visiting in alone. Above beautiful monuments you can enjoy even more beautiful views on the Milazzo (for example you can see two seas surrounding Milazzo at once).When you leave the castle turn right and go about 200m. You will find nice roof from which you can enjoy beautiful view on the city (I REALLY recommand it for the night with a wine).The cost of entrance was 5 or 6 euro (don't remember).
gofins1
The castle itself is unremarkable except that the ramparts offer stunning and encompassing views of the area. I wished I'd brought a bottle of wine and some cheese to relax and soak in the views.
apbg6060
Well worth the slog up the hill for the Castle and the fantastic views of the Milazzo cape and peninsula.
Littlealba
I have to admit that we never got to go in though we visited twice due to adverse weather for leaving for the islands. So note. It's closed during siesta and closed all day on Mondays. However we walked around it from the outside, as much as is possible and it is a well formed huge castle. I believe it has had the arabs, spanish and normans to name but a few conquerors of sicily. This is a must and is so near to Milazzo that won't take you long at all.
SailingSicily
i went to the castle before it was renovated and thought it was quite amazing, now they have opened up a newly renovated portion of the ancient spanish walls, and it was quite breath taking, the view, the work,... and when we went there wasn't an entrance fee because they were having a food and wine expo, it was really nice
robertc577
Maybe we arrived with high expectations. Directly related to Frederick II, I was anxious to see this prominent castle. We wandered about, trying to figure out which portion belonged to which time period. There are no signs within the castle - not even in Italian or Sicilian, let alone English. I'm glad to see that they are utilizing some of the rooms, many had tables and chairs in them, but what about the history? We entered a large hall, and a few empty small rooms, obviously old. What went on inside those rooms? What were they used for? Your imagination needs to wander, since you won't get any help from any guides or posted information. Yes, the views from the walls were magnificent, and we took a lot of pictures of the area. But, as far as the castle itself, it needs a lot of work to rank it as even adequate, let alone exceptional.
nolatNewOrleans
This ancient castle showcases structures from just about every group that ever lived in Sicily. The views are breathtaking and the local folks actually use its facilities for art exhibits (We saw two in progress) It is also used for concerts, receptions, etc. What a wonderful way to preserve history!
jordif246
Apart of the interesting visit to the building, be sure not to miss the great views of the sea and the Aeolian Islands!
LNC74
Absolutely to see. Huge, historically important, it really deserves a visit. The entrance is free of charge. During the summer it hosts many cultural events. The most ancient part has been recently re-opened. You cannot leave from Milazzo if you have not taken a photo from the Castle's terrace.