About this experience
Introducing you to the touching and amazing Modica. We will admire the city from the Belvedere viewpoint, walk through narrow streets and small squares, visit all the significant temples - including the cave church of San Nicolò Inferiore and the cathedral. You will learn many legends and stories, discover the peculiarities of Sicilian Baroque, and then you can taste the famous Modica chocolate and local cuisine at the city's best delicatessen.
What to Expect
Special Style and Approach to Restoration
Modica survived a series of earthquakes, after which the city was rebuilt in the luxurious Sicilian Baroque style in the 18th century. Most of these buildings have been well preserved. I will help you understand this style and its differences from neo-Gothic, elements of which can be found in Modica's architecture. I will tell you about the mentality of the local residents, which explains their approach to restoration and repairs - and you will understand why Modica has so many authentic monuments.
Temples and Monasteries
Modica is known as the city of a thousand steps and hundreds of churches, and on our way, we will come across many temples that have preserved their original beauty. The main attraction of the city is the Cathedral of St. George, a vivid example of Sicilian Baroque. You will learn where the Norman coat of arms came from and see the sundial, created by the mathematician Armando Perini, where a ray of light falls at noon. In Lower Modica, the beauty of the cathedral is rivalled by the Church of St. Peter - I will explain the symbolism of the coats of arms in the church and who they are dedicated to.
Next to it is the Cave Church of San Nicolò Inferiore - it was accidentally discovered and quite recently. Inside, you can see well-preserved pre-Byzantine frescoes, including the representation of Christ Pantocrator. Optionally, we can visit the 1st-century Santa Maria del Gesù Monastery, which became the center of science and education in southern Sicily. And in the Santa Maria del Carmine Church, you will see the smallest and oldest functioning organ.
Culinary Aspect
Today, Modica's hallmark is chocolate, which is produced according to the ancient Aztec recipe. At the Chocolate Shop, you will taste different varieties, and I will tell you about its preparation. We will talk about local cuisine: tomatoes, Ragusa honey, nuts, and cookies with meat and chocolate, which were used instead of preserves in the Middle Ages. You can end the tour at a small delicatessen, where you can try the best traditional Sicilian dishes at a low price.
Organizational Details
Additional expenses - at your discretion:
- Visiting temples and cathedrals is free; entrance to bell towers - €2
- Visiting the Cave Church of San Nicolò Inferiore - €2.5
- Lunch at the delicatessen averages €7 per person, including drinks
- Chocolate tasting at the Chocolate Shop - €3
- Transfer is also possible, starting from €30 from the provinces of Syracuse, Ragusa - details to be specified in correspondence
