Modica & The Surrounding Area
About Modica
“With its steeply stacked centre and spectacular baroque cathedrals, Modica is one of Southern Sicily’s most atmospheric towns” (ref. Lonely Planet). Modica is a vibrant community with interesting shops, friendly people and breath taking vistas.
The town is spread over the sides of two valleys where two river torrents merged into a V shaped rocky gorge. During medieval times many of the homes were carved from sandstone into caves (grottos) overlooking the torrents.
These torrents are now running underground and the main street, Corso Umberto 1, runs along the old river bed. A labyrinth of streets climb up the gorges where over 100 baroque churches are interspersed with cobbled lanes, ancient steps and fine nobles’ houses.
You can see the homes carved in sandstone as you walk in the city along the wall of the gorge.
Surrounding Area
Modica is perfectly positioned as a home base to explore nearby cities, beaches, and areas of interest in southeast Sicily. It is easy to take day trips by bus, car, train or bike to Noto, Syracusa, Ragusa, and Scicli, all of which are UNESCO sites. Take a day trip by bus or car to Catania to visit the spectacular open-air market and the Duomo, another great adventure.
The famous ceramics of Caltagirone are only a two hour drive away and well worth a trip. For those who like the beach, blue flag beaches of Pozallo, Sampieri, Marina di Modica and Donnalucata are just a 25 minute drive away.
The area is known for its excellent year-round climate, rich cultural and historical attributes, baroque architecture, outstanding Sicilian gastronomy (wine and food) friendly local people and affordability.
The area’s delicate blend of history, nature and the sea has contributed to its rich delights including fresh produce year round, and local specialty recipes for chocolate, wine, olive oil, ricotta, and pastries. Modica also has excellent restaurants. Ragusa which is nearby has two Michelin-rated restaurants.