From the ornate facades of Noto to the dramatic vistas of Ragusa, and Modica’s chocolate-making heritage, the spectacular Baroque towns of Sicily exude ornate richness, grandeur and cultural richness.
After a devasting earthquake in 1693, that destroyed 70 villages and towns in the south-eastern part of Sicily, known as the Val di Noto, the area was completely rebuilt in the intricate Baroque style. While this earthquake remains as one of the most destructive earthquakes in Italian history, it allowed for the restoration and reconstruction of an exceptional group of towns, eight of which are now designated UNESCO world heritage sites; Caltagirone, Militello Val di Catania, Catania, Modica, Noto, Palazzolo, Ragusa and Scicli. A true architectural and artistic achievement, each town boasts traditional Baroque features with elaborate facades, grand churches and rich ornamentation.
Ragusa, a spectacular hilltop town with awe inspiring views, is a true Sicilian gem. Visit the Duomo di San Giorgio, an impressive Baroque cathedral with a stunning facade and walk up to the Church of Santa Maria delle Scale, known for its dramatic staircase with breath-taking views of Ragusa below. Stroll through Ragusa’s charming historic center to view stunning Baroque facades and spend a leisurely afternoon relaxing in Giardino Ibleo, a scenic park offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
An architectural beauty with a remarkable historic center and endless golden limestone facades, Noto is another Baroque town that should not be missed.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast of granita, brioche and cannoli at Café Sicilia, walk up Corso Vittorio Emanuele, the main street running through Noto and visit the impressive San Nicolò Cathedral. If you are curious about the region’s spectacular wines, Enoteca del Val Di Noto is the perfect place to discover and savour the best Sicilian wines like Nero d’Avola, Grillo and Catarratto.
Another stunning Baroque town is Modica, known for its culinary delights, natural beauty and Baroque architecture, which gracefully climbs the hillsides in a series of layered terraces, creating a dramatic and picturesque landscape.
Known for its famous chocolate- ‘cioccolato di Modica’, this traditional chocolate is made using ancient Aztec methods introduced by the Spanish in the 16th century. Visit Antica Dolceria Bonajuto, the oldest chocolate shop in Sicily and enjoy the delicious samples. Stop by the Duomo di San Giorgio, considered one of Sicily’s most impressive baroque churches with 250 steps connecting upper and lower Modica, as it provides outstanding views over the city.
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