Baroque Southeastern Corner: Noto, Ragusa & Modica

After the devastating earthquake of 1693, the cities of southeastern Sicily were completely rebuilt in the late Baroque style — and today they are UNESCO World Heritage sites and a feast for the eyes.

Noto ★★★

The "capital of the Baroque": a single showcase of honey-colored sandstone. The Cattedrale di San Nicolò (lovingly restored after the dome collapse in 1996) and the Palazzo Nicolaci with its fantastic balconies (sirens, lions, putti) are the highlights. In May, the Infiorata transforms Via Corrado Nicolaci into a carpet of flowers.

Ragusa Ibla ★★★

The lower town of Ragusa is a baroque total work of art: winding alleys, stairs, hidden piazzas, and over 50 churches. The Duomo di San Giorgio towers over the maze. Known as the filming location for the crime series "Il Commissario Montalbano".

Modica ★★

Famous for chocolate made according to an Aztec recipe (cold processed, grainy, intense — quite different from Belgian chocolate). The Antica Dolceria Bonajuto (since 1880) is the oldest chocolate factory in Sicily. And: The Church of San Giorgio with its monumental staircase is another baroque masterpiece.