Modica has been compared to a split pomegranite given the way the valleys of the two rivers which run through the centre split the town, which is built tumbling down the rock faces. The castle, which from time immemorial has sat upon a rocky crag above the town, and punctuated by churches, convents and lowly houses as it cascades down to the valley floor, the town is often said to be a ‘real life presepe’.
It is undoubtedly picturesque, what you see being the result of the rebuilding in the Baroque style after the great earthquake of 1693. Wandering the little lanes and staircases affords captivating glimpses of the town from its noble buildings to the ancient cave dwellings, in some cases still inhabited.
