A Baroque town
Modica is divided into two parts - Modica Alta and Modica Bassa - and both have their own charm. The upper town offers breathtaking views across the valley and intricate streets where it's easy to get lost in time. The lower part, on the other hand, is alive with the hustle and bustle of cafes, shops and local life, making it perfect for an evening stroll or a drink.
The heart of the city is the majestic Duomo di San Giorgio, a cathedral that boasts a monumental staircase and a magnificent interior full of Baroque decoration. Equally impressive is St Peter's Church, fronted by a dozen statues of the apostles.
If you climb even higher, you'll discover the remains of the Castello dei Conti, a former castle with a tower that offers an unforgettable view of the entire city. And those who want to soak up the atmosphere of everyday life in Modica should take a stroll along Via Marchesa Tedeschi, the main street lined with shops, cafes and historic palaces.
The City of Chocolate
Modica is famous throughout Italy as the chocolate capital. The local tradition of production dates back to the 16th century, when the Spaniards brought cocoa beans and the original Aztec processing method from the Americas. The result is a chocolate with a coarser texture, intense flavour and without the use of milk or butter - cioccolato di Modica.
You can find it on almost every corner. But the best place to visit is the oldest chocolate factory, in operation since 1880, the Antica Dolceria Bonajuto, or the ChocoModica Festival , a chocolate festival full of tastings, workshops and concerts . It is always held in November/December .
Gastronomy and atmosphere
In addition to chocolate, try the scacce modicane (stuffed savoury pancakes, a typical street snack), pasta con le sarde (pasta with sardines and wild fennel), and of course cannoli or cassata siciliana (classic Sicilian desserts).
In the evening, stop by Corso Umberto I, where the cafes and bars come alive and the street turns into a vibrant promenade.
Experiences and tips for travellers
If you really want to get to know Modica to the full, don't miss the Pizzo Belvedere viewpoint, which offers the most beautiful panorama of the city, especially magical at sunset. Every Wednesday morning it's worth visiting the local market in Piazza Matteotti, where you'll find fresh vegetables, local produce and typical Sicilian specialities among the stalls.
The town is also alive with festivals - the biggest of which is the Festa di San Giorgio, held at the end of April. The streets are filled with colourful parades, music and the celebrations culminate in a spectacular fireworks display. And if you feel like exploring the surrounding area, be sure to take a short trip. It's only a twenty-minute drive to the charming Ragusa Ibla, another pearl of Sicilian Baroque, and towards the coast lies Marina di Modica, where you can enjoy the beautiful beaches and sea breezes.
Practical information
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Best time to visit: spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant.
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Accommodation: historic palaces converted into boutique hotels and cosy B&Bs.
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Transport: the closest airports are Comiso (40 km) or Catania (120 km).
Modica is a town where you can wander the baroque streets, enjoy the views and end the day with a piece of chocolate that tastes unlike anywhere else in the world.
