Cathedral of Modica

The high point of Modica -both figuratively and literally- is the city's Cathedral of St Giorgio with its soaring central tower. The church is a masterpiece of high Baroque, rebuilt following the earthquake of 1693, like the other structures in the area, in the harmonious style of Sicilian baroque. It is included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of this unique architectural style. The rebuilt structure was dedicated in 1738 and bears five naves with 22 columns, each capped by a Corinthian capital. The interior is frosted in rich stucco decorations.

The cycle of paintings depicting the life and St. George and events of the gospels were completed by Girolamo Alibrandi -called the "Raphael of Sicily" while the polyptych was painted by Bernardino Niger, who, archive records show, was also married in the church. There are many other masterpieces adorning the church that recount Biblical and saintly scenes.

The monumental organ is a work of art in itself - bearing 3000 pipes and 4 keyboards -and still in perfect working condition! The dome lifts the eye and spirit heavenward.

The elegant tower-like facade defines the city's skyline and draws attention to this beautiful building. It is fronted by a monumental staircase; two separate lower ramps curve elegantly upward and join together to ascend to the cathedral. The overall effect of the architecture really is heavenly and spiritual.

The address is Corso San Giorgio, but if you want to see (and ascend) the entire staircase, you'll need to start in Via Giuseppe Garibaldi.