The Spadafora castle, probably built at the end of the sixteenth century around a defensive tower by the Spadafora family for coastal control and for the defense of the S. Martino fief, has been the subject of several studies and much has been written about it starting with the Florentine architect Camillo Camiliani, especially regarding the date of construction. In the 18th century, the fort was transformed into a noble residence, perhaps by the same Guttierez Spadafora whose heraldic insignia, together with Branciforte, Moncada, Ruffo, and Gatto, are associated in the coat of arms that surmounts the rusticated entrance portal of the castle, testifying to the supremacy of a family of very ancient origins. Even today it is evident that the Castle had a use more residential than defensive; in fact, official sources note that in 1675 a group of French soldiers captured it in just twenty-four hours. Between the 18th and 19th centuries, the building was abandoned and occasionally housed military units in transit between Messina and Milazzo. Currently, it is open to the public for visits and cultural events.
Information about Spadafora Castle
Spadafora (Messina)
090 36894435
https://www.regione.sicilia.it
Source: MIBACT
