Ispica, Baroque commune in Ragusa, Italy
Description
Ispica is a commune in southern Sicily that spreads across hills and valleys, defined by an intricate network of caves and archaeological sites. The settlement spans roughly 13 kilometers of rocky landscape, layered with traces of human habitation from different periods.
History
The settlement was originally named Spaccaforno and underwent complete reconstruction after the devastating Sicily earthquake of 1693. It relocated to its present hillside location and adopted the Baroque architectural style that was spreading across the island at that time.
Culture
The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore dominates the town center with its ornate Baroque facade and welcoming portico, serving as a natural gathering place. Local residents still pass through this area regularly, making it a living hub where community life unfolds.
Practical
The town is best explored on foot, as many attractions like the Basilica and archaeological sites are within walking distance. The Cava d'Ispica is accessible but requires sturdy shoes and some physical effort to navigate its slopes and cavities.
Did you know?
The Cava d'Ispica contains housing units carved directly into rock formations, occupied continuously from prehistoric times through the late eighteen hundreds. These homes built within the hillside reveal how people adapted their lives to the rocky terrain and available resources over many centuries.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Free Municipal Consortium of Ragusa).
Santa Maria Maggiore
365 m
Torre Cabrera
8.3 km
Pietre Nere
7.7 km
Chiesa di Santa Maria di Portosalvo
8.2 km
Santissima Annunziata
379 m
Spiaggia Santa Maria del Focallo
7.7 km
Scogli Porri Lighthouse
11.2 km
Plaja Ulisse
12.3 km
Spiaggia Grottelle
6.7 km
Spiaggia Tegolaio
6.4 km
Spiaggia Pozzallo
8.1 km
San Giuseppe
5.7 km
Spiaggia Bove Marino
6.4 kmCava d'Ispica
3.9 km
Castrum
802 mOlivo
1.5 kmIsola dei Porri
11.3 kmParco Forza
820 mPalazzo Bruno di Belmonte
88 mTeatro della Musica Augusto Daolio
7.7 kmSpiaggia di Granelli
12.7 kmSpiaggia Santa Maria del Focallo
7.7 kmDon Giovanni Bosco
7.2 kmWork of art, sculpture
486 mWork of art, sculpture
479 mScenic viewpoint
12 kmScenic viewpoint
12 kmScenic viewpoint
12 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes