Modena

Modena is a city in the province of Modena in Emilia-Romagna, northern Italy, lying between two rivers and threaded with streets that follow the old fortification belt. The streets open onto wide squares where churches, palaces and public buildings rise in brick and pale stone.

Roman founders established a colony here in the 2nd century BCE, which later became the capital of a noble family who moved from another city. The family ruled for several centuries and left art collections and buildings that remain visible today.

The cathedral carries the name of the city patron Saint Geminianus, whose relics rest in the crypt below. Visitors often notice the lively scenes from biblical stories carved into the stone reliefs on the facade.

A visit to the center works well on foot, as most sights lie close together. Parking areas sit outside the old walls, from where you can reach the center quickly.

The city houses the tombs of several members of the family who ruled here for centuries. Their sarcophagi stand in a chapel that visitors can enter during certain opening hours.

Location: Province of Modena

Elevation above the sea: 34 m

Shares border with: Bastiglia, Bomporto, Campogalliano, Carpi, Casalgrande, Castelfranco Emilia, Castelnuovo Rangone, Nonantola, San Cesario sul Panaro, Soliera, Spilamberto, Formigine, Rubiera

Website: https://comune.modena.it

GPS coordinates: 44.64589,10.92557

Latest update: December 15, 2025 07:00