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Similarly to Giovanni Rizzo\u2019s dreamlike illustration style, the harbour city of Messina is as if it was pulled straight frommythology. Situated in north-eastern Sicily, the old Mediterranean city is separated from the mainland which lends furtherfascination to the region. Messina is best known for the Norman Messina Cathedral and Bell Tower with construction ofthe building dating as far back as the 12th century.<\/p>\n
Rizzo was born in the city and distinctly remembers the \u201clion roar\u201d of the bell\u2019s mechanisms churning, shortly followed bya chorus of Schubert\u2019s \u201cAve Maria\u201d. \u201cSometimes it can be heard through the entire town thanks to the wind,\u201d Rizzo says.<\/p>\n
Marble fountains can be frequently found throughout the city decorated by revered mythical gods. Messina\u2019s Fountain ofNeptune is perhaps the most renowned and depicts\u00a0the famous sea god, overlooking the Ionian Sea. It is here where Rizzo also recalls another childhood memory which hasformed the inspiration for his painting; watching the swordfish boats pass by.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen I was a child I used to see the old swordfish boats sailing through the Strait,\u201d Rizzo says. \u201cThey were special boats with a very high mast where a sailor was standing to spot swordfishes.\u201d<\/p>\n
The local seafood is what makes up much of the cuisine in Messina, while braciolettine \u2013 breaded and roasted beef roll stuffed withcheese \u2013 is a dish that can\u2019t be found anywhere else in Sicily. But if you ask Rizzo for his favourite meal, it is focaccia and ironically, a lockdown obsession for many\u00a0people worldwide.<\/p>\n
The artist suggests an iteration of Messina\u2019s local cheese, tuma, sliced fresh tomatoes, escarole and anchovies. \u201cAll the bakeries make itand it\u2019s inexpensive,\u201d Rizzo says.<\/p>\n
After a long day of walking in and around the city\u2019s glistening waterfront, the smell of local jasmine flower wafting in the wind fromthe surrounding mountains, Rizzo says a fresh slice of focaccia is best served with Messina\u2019s salt crystal beverage.<\/p>\n
Follow Giovanni Rizzo @giovanni.rizzo.illustrazioni<\/p>\n
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