The Sicilian city of Messina had reached the peak of its splendor in the early 17th century, under Spanish domination: at the time it was one of the ten greatest cities in Europe.

In 1674, the city rebes against the foreign garrison.

It manages to remain independent for some time, thanks to the help of the French king Louis XIV, but in 1678, with the Peace of Nijmegen, it is reconquered by the Spaniards and sacked: the University, the Senate and all the privileges of autonomy it has enjoyed since the Roman times are abolished.

A massive fortress is built by the occupants, and henceforth Messina will decay steadily.