Due to its geographically particular location on the slopes of a canyon, Modica was of strategic significance early on.
Various sources record it as early as the 3rd century BC, under Arab rule it was a thriving agricultural center and under Norman rule a royal residence.
Due to its geographically particular location on the slopes of a canyon, Modica was of strategic significance early on.
Various sources record it as early as the 3rd century BC, under Arab rule it was a thriving agricultural center and under Norman rule a royal residence.
Modica's houses, nesting right next to each other and stacked one on top of the other, seem glued to the rock faces and in fact many still have rooms with walls formed by the natural rock.
Enthroned upon a rocky outcrop visible from all sides, the clock of the former castle looks down upon the town.
Among the churches particularly worth a closer look are surely Duomo di San Pietro, its broad flight of steps lined by the majestic statues of the twelve apostles, and five-nave Duomo San Giorgio. It is best to 'climb up' to San Giorgio from the center of the Old Town by mounting the 250 steps of its imposing Baroque staircase. At the church of Santa Maria di Betlemme, you get to see a very well preserved late Gothic portal.
Corso Umberto, Modica's main shopping street, is flanked by Baroque palazzi with artful decorations and ornate balconies. That is where you also find restored Teatro Garibaldi.
Stroll through the alleys of Modica with their small staircases and archways. Stop for a nice hot cup of Cioccolata Modicana or a refreshing granita at one of the typical bars and taste some of the countless delicious dolci, which the local pastry shops are famous for. For dinner take your pick from among a large number of restaurants and pizzerias.
On the territory of the town of Modica lies Cava d'Ispica, a gorge 13 km in length with Siculi burial caves, Greek necropolises and Christian catacombs. The fascinating site might greatly appeal also to lovers of nature because of its paradise-like vegetation and quiet.
Excursions to the neighboring, UNESCO World Heritage listed Baroque towns of Scicli, Ragusa Ibla, Palazzolo Acreide and Noto are definitely worth your while.
About 20 km from Modica, on the Costa Iblea, lies the bathing resort of the Modicani - Marina di Modica: relaxing and tranquil for walks as well as a sunbath in winter; inviting for fun at long sandy beaches and a refreshing swim in the sea in summer.
Our accommodations are located near Modica, at Sampieri, Donnalucata and Marina di Ragusa.
Contact us by email or phone (Mon - Fri 09:30 h - 17:00 h):
0049 941 / 56 76 46-0
