Duomo of San Giorgio, Baroque cathedral in Modica, Italy
The Duomo of San Giorgio is a Baroque cathedral rising above Modica at the top of a monumental staircase of roughly 250 steps. Its ornate limestone facade and multiple bell towers dominate the skyline and form the visual heart of this Sicilian town.
Following the devastating earthquake of 1693, the structure underwent major reconstruction from 1702 to 1738 under architect Rosario Gagliardi. This rebuilding transformed it into a showcase of the Baroque style that reshaped southeastern Sicily after the disaster.
The dedication to Saint George reflects the saint's role as the city's protector and namesake. Inside, the five aisles with their Corinthian columns create a sense of grandeur that local residents and visitors experience together.
The cathedral sits in central Modica along Corso San Giorgio and is easy to reach on foot. The steep staircase demands sturdy shoes and some physical effort, but the climb offers rewarding views of the town stretching below.
Set into the cathedral floor is a meridian line that functions as a sundial, marking the exact moment of local noon each day. This astronomical feature also displays the geographical coordinates of Modica itself.
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