The castle is known for its legends about Macalda of Scaletta
History
The castle of Scaletta Zanclea, also known as Rufo Ruffo Castle, stands on a hill overlooking the homonymous medieval village, in the municipality of Scaletta Zanclea (metropolitan city of Messina). Erected in 1220 by order of Emperor Frederick II of Swabia as a means of defence and a mansion, it was granted to Matteo Selvaggio, an ancestor of Baroness Macalda who was born there around 1240. Subsequently, various lineages took over the property. In 1969, Prince of Scaletta Sigerio Ruffo donated it to the town council, which restored it and made it open to visitors.