San Domenico church

San Domenico church is a baroque building in Modica featuring 16th-century paintings and a chapel decorated with stucco work and wall paintings. The structure displays typical baroque architectural elements with rich interior decoration and artistic details throughout.

The church was rebuilt after the devastating 1693 earthquake and remains one of the few structures that survived the disaster. It was later expanded as a baroque building and has defined Modica's appearance since then.

The church bears the name of Saint Dominic and reveals how the Dominican order designed their religious spaces through its interior decoration. The artworks and ornamental details reflect the faith and artistic values that shaped this place during the 16th and 18th centuries.

The adjacent Dominican convent now serves as Modica's town hall, making it possible to explore both religious and administrative buildings in one location. Access is typically available during daytime hours when the municipal offices are operating.

The underground crypt features wall paintings depicting skulls with symbols of earthly power alongside an ossuary from the 18th century. This unusual artwork shows how the monks artistically expressed thoughts about mortality and human authority.

Location: Modica

Architectural style: baroque architecture

GPS coordinates: 36.85914,14.76139

Latest update: December 9, 2025 20:23