Cathedral, Torre Civica and Piazza Grande, Modena

Modena, located in the heart of the fertile Po Valley in northeastern Italy, is a city steeped in history and culture. It has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1997 due to its magnificent ensemble of Piazza Grande, the Ghirlandina Tower, and the Cathedral. With its historical significance and artistic splendor, Modena has a lot to offer, making it a must-visit destination. The historical center of Modena is easily explored on foot, and a visit to this city is incomplete without a few laps along Via Emilia, shopping at the Historical Albinelli Market, and admiring the Ghirlandina Tower from various angles. Modena is not only a city of great culinary delights but also a place of historical significance.
The city's history is closely tied to Saint Geminianus, who was the bishop of Modena in the latter half of the 4th century and is now the city's patron saint. Legends tell tales of his miraculous intervention, including saving the city from the Huns of Attila by shrouding it in a thick blanket of fog in 451.
The UNESCO recognition of Modena is mainly attributed to the work of architect Lanfranco and sculptor Wiligelmo, who were the creative geniuses behind the Modena Cathedral, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. The cathedral's completion, including the tower, was entrusted to the Campionesi Masters, skilled sculptors who worked in Modena from the late 12th century to the early 14th century. Modena's outstanding monumental complex is a testament to the peak of medieval Italian communal civilization.
The Cathedral, Civic Tower (Ghirlandina), and Piazza Grande represent one of the main schools of a new figurative language that had a significant influence on the development of Romanesque architecture in Italy and throughout Europe. Modena boasts a rich history and presents a variety of places to explore in its historic center. For first-time visitors, however, starting with the three UNESCO-recognized wonders is a must.
Piazza Grande, the city's historic heart, serves as a welcoming and majestic square that has historically overseen the city's political and religious life. The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta in Cielo and San Geminiano faces directly onto the square. The details on the main façade of the Modena Cathedral and the sculptural works that draw inspiration from the Bible are spectacular and unique worldwide. Particularly noteworthy are the Genesis Reliefs: four slabs depicting scenes from the Book of Genesis, attributed to Wiligelmo. Two are located above the side doors, and two flank the central portal.
When observing the cathedral from Piazza Grande, you'll notice that the central door differs in style from the other entrances of the building. There's a reason for this: it wasn't the work of Lanfranco but rather the Campionesi Masters, who intervened later, opening a new entrance with pink marble, opting for greater architectural grandeur. Much more ornate is the nearby Princes' Door (Porta dei Principi). Approach it to discover the lintel adorned with a splendid bas-relief depicting episodes from the life of San Geminiano. Inside the Cathedral, in the crypt accessible to visitors, you'll find the tomb of the saint. Once a year, on January 31, his remains are dressed in episcopal attire and put on display for the faithful. A visit to the crypt also allows you to admire the Madonna of Pappa, a colorful terracotta sculptural group created by Guido Mazzoni in 1480.
Adjacent to the Cathedral stands the Civic Tower, known as the Ghirlandina, the city's true symbol. For centuries, it served as an alert tower in case of danger. Today, you can climb to the top to enjoy a unique view of Modena.
In addition to the Cathedral, it is recommended to visit the Museum of the Cathedral and the Lapidary Museum, where the famous Metopes are preserved. These eight Romanesque sculptures depict monstrous peoples from medieval world maps living on the fringes of the known world. Created in the 12th century by an unknown sculptor, the Metopes adorned the interior of the Cathedral until 1950 when they were replaced with copies and relocated to the museum.
Maximo Bottura is the leading figure in Modena's culinary scene and is renowned worldwide. Yet, the city's culinary specialties are legendary even before you sit down to dine, such as the Balsamic Vinegar of Modena PGI and Parmigiano Reggiano. These can be savored together with a slice of delicious Prosciutto di Modena DOP.
Gnocco fritto is often paired with typical local salamis and cheeses. Another local delight is tigelle, also known as crescentine, stuffed with delicacies like mortadella and squacquerone cheese. For a unique meal, you might try tortellini in broth, or Zampone di Modena IGP, whose origins date back to 1511. Modena's cuisine is an essential part of its cultural heritage, and exploring its gastronomic treasures is a delightful journey that should not be missed.