Capo d’Orlando
Part of The Encyclopedia of Southern Italy.
Capo d’Orlando (ME): A commune (area: 14.6 km²; alt. 12m) in the province of Messina. It is located 90 km W of Messina, on the N coast of Sicily, to the W of the similarly named cape. Population: 12,951 (2006e); 11,948 (1991). The economy is principally agricultural (citrus fruit), but other local industries include tuna-fishing, milling, pasta-making, and the manufacture of cement blocks. The beach area has been developed as a resort.
History: During the 14th century, Roger di Lauria, commanding an Allied fleet of Sicilian, Catalan, and Angevin ships, defeated Frederick II of Aragon.
Points of Interest: There are ruins of a 13th / 14th century castle.
At the top of the headland is a sanctuary founded in 1598, which has long been a place of pilgrimage.
The beach of S. Gregorio is noted for its boulders which wind and water has carved into unusual shapes.