Modica - UNESCO World Heritage in Sicily

Baroque Modica - UNESCO World Heritage Site with centuries of chocolate tradition

Heavy floods and the diversion of rivers in 1902 made Modica what it is today - a town divided into two parts. But that's exactly what makes their charm.  In the upper town of Modica Alta, and thus in the older part, the Duomo di San Giorgio idomiantes as a late Baroque masterpiece, which can be reached via a seemingly endless outside staircase. The architectural antithesis in the lower town of Modica Bassa is the Duomo San Pietro, whose stairway is lined with larger-than-life statues of the twelve apostles. Nearby, the cave church of S. Niccolò Inferiore with Byzantine frescoes was discovered in the 20th century. There is no lack of churches, since Modica is also called the city of 100 churches.

Tips

An absolute must is the tasting of the Aztec chocolate in the oldest chocolate shop in Sicily, the Antica Pasticceria Bonaiuto in Corso Umberto I, 159. Lovers of poetry should not miss a visit to the birthplace of the poet and Nobel Prize winner Salvatore Quasimodo, who was born in Modica.

Parking

Parking in the old town is difficult. Therefore, it is advisable to park at Corso Umberto I: free of charge at the parking Viale Medaglie d'Oro or at Piazzale Falcone e Borsellino.  

Opening Hours & Prices

Duomo San Pietro
Corso San Pietro
Daily 9.00 - 13.00, 16.00 - 19.30

Casa Quasimodo
Via Posterla 84
Daily 10.30 - 13.00, 15.30 - 19.30

Cave Church of S. Niccolò
Inferiore Via Grimaldi, 89
Tue closed, otherwise daily 10.00 - 13.00, 16.00 - 19.00
Admission: 2 €, concessions 1,50 €