Modica

Introduction

Nestled within the rugged landscape of the Hyblaean Mountains, you will find Modica located in the Province of Ragusa in southern Italy.

Before you go

Prepare for your visit by understanding the unique layout of this UNESCO world heritage site. You will find the city divided into two distinct areas: Modica Alta, which sits higher on the southern Ibeli hill as the older portion of the town, and Modica Bassa, located lower down the slopes in the valley. Both sections showcase a baroque style that defines the region following the reconstruction after a major earthquake.

You can explore the history of the landscape, including the broad main avenue in the lower town which was developed into a graceful boulevard after a river was diverted following a flood.

You can reach Modica by air via Comiso airport or by flying into Catania Fontanarossa or Palermo, both of which offer a wider range of domestic and European flights. While Comiso is closer to the region, it lacks a public transport link, whereas Catania offers a bus service directly to Modica.

If you prefer rail travel, Modica sits on a branch line served by a single-coach railcar. You can catch trains heading north toward Gela or south toward Syracuse, both of which provide connections to other major cities like Palermo, Catania, and Messina. The station is located at the south end of town, providing easy access to the Lower Town. Alternatively, you can reach the city by bus from various nearby locations, including Syracuse, Catania, Palermo, Ragusa, Pozzallo, and Noto. If traveling by car, you can navigate through regional roads from Catania, Siracusa, or Agrigento.

Getting around

You can navigate the city using the urban bus system located on Corso Umberto 1, situated near the intercity bus stop across from the "Barycentro." While the service is prone to being irregular, you should expect to wait for the bus when traveling by this method.

Where to stay

You can stay in a historic 17th-century palace located at the main junction of town. This central location puts you at the foot of the road leading toward Ragusa, providing convenient access to the heart of Modica.

Your stay can include access to a wellness center and spa facilities within the palace grounds.

Food & drink

Savor the local flavors of Sicily by visiting a pastry shop renowned for its traditional chocolate. You can also find these specialty products in various shops throughout neighboring towns.

For a taste of authentic Sicilian cuisine, you can dine at a local tavern to experience traditional dishes from the region.

What to see and do

Explore the distinct character of the two levels of the city by walking from Modica Alta down to Modica Bassa, where you can enjoy views of the lower town via a series of steps or a zigzagging road. In the upper section, visit the Duomo di San Giorgio, a large Baroque cathedral with a tower offering views of the city, and admire the elegant late Baroque architecture of Palazzo Napolino-Tommasi Rosso and the 17th-century Palazzo Polara. Other notable sites in this area include the Chiesa di Santa Maria del Gesù, the Chiesa di San Giovanni Evangelista, and the former residence known as Castello dei Conti.

Descend to Modica Bassa to discover a wealth of cultural landmarks:

• The Duomo di San Pietro, crowned by a Sicilian Baroque belltower.
• The cave church of Chiesa rupestre di San Nicolò Inferiore, featuring rare frescoes on bare rock.
• The Chiesa di Santa Maria di Betlem, which houses a richly decorated Gothic chapel and a monumental nativity with terracotta figurines.
• The Modica Chocolate Museum, where you can see an exhibition on the local method of preparing chocolate at low temperatures.
• Various historic buildings including Palazzo Grimaldi, the Neoclassical Teatro Garibaldi, and the Palazzo della Cultura.
• Palazzo San Domenico, a former seat of the Spanish Inquisition that contains an underground crypt.
• The 17th-century Rococo Palazzo Rubino and the Palazzo dei Mercedari, which houses a library and museum of folk traditions.

Three days in Modica

Day one, you can explore the historic streets of Modica Alta and experience the atmosphere of this UNESCO site in the Province of Ragusa. You can wander through the ancient architecture to get a sense of the local character.

Day two, you can head to Modica Bassa to see the Lower Town. Alternatively, you can travel toward other nearby areas such as Ibeli or Comiso to experience different parts of Sicily.

Day three, you can explore more of the region, including destinations like Noto, Syracuse, and Agrigento, while savoring the local Sicilian culture throughout your journey.