Rometta

Rometta is a historic hill borgo in the Province of Messina, set above the Gulf of Milazzo with a coastal extension at Rometta Marea. From its elevated position, the town looks across a broad Sicilian landscape, from the Milazzo promontory and the Aeolian Islands to the Peloritani Mountains and Monte Scuderi.

Its identity is closely tied to defence and height. The name is linked to the Greek *ta erymata*, “the fortresses”, later becoming *rimtah* under Arab rule, *Rametta* in the Middle Ages and Rometta from the 16th century. Under the Kingdom of Sicily it was remembered as an *urbs munitissima*, a strongly fortified city, a reputation reinforced by its control of the old route between Messina and Palermo.

Rometta’s past reaches back to very ancient settlement evidence, while its historic character is especially marked by Byzantine, Arab, Norman and later phases. More than a simple hill village, it is distinctive for the way its panoramic setting, defensive name and long strategic role still define its sense of place.