Modica, UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sicily, Italy
Modica is a commune in southern Sicily, divided into two sections at different elevations. The upper town sits on rocky hilltops, while the lower town spreads through a valley once crossed by rivers.
An earthquake destroyed much of the town in 1693, after which churches and palaces were rebuilt in Sicilian baroque style. This reconstruction still shapes the townscape and led to recognition as a World Heritage Site.
The Cathedral of San Giorgio rises above a wide staircase of pale stone, displaying Sicilian baroque craftsmanship. In the lanes of the lower town, chocolatiers make chocolate following Aztec tradition, without modern conching.
Stone stairways connect the two sections and lead through narrow lanes between tall facades. The Guerrieri arch spans the valley and provides a clear landmark when walking through.
Several churches stand directly on the roofs of earlier houses, after the earthquake completely changed the town structure. Some facades still show imprints of baroque wooden beams that were set into the stone.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
