Cathedral, Torre Civica and Piazza Grande, Modena
Modena, Emilia-Romagna, Italy
17.07.2024
The Kathedrale von Modena, also known as the Modena Cathedral, is a stunning example of Romanesque architecture located in the charming city of Modena in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. This magnificent cathedral, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit for anyone interested in history, art, and architecture.
The cathedral was originally built in the 12th century by the architect Lanfranco and underwent various renovations and additions over the centuries, resulting in a beautiful blend of styles including Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance. The exterior of the cathedral is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, including the famous rose window and the iconic Ghirlandina Tower, which stands tall at 86 meters and is a symbol of the city.
Inside, visitors will be amazed by the grandeur of the cathedral's interior, with its soaring vaulted ceilings, colorful frescoes, and stunning marble floors. The highlight of the interior is the Chapel of St. Geminianus, the patron saint of Modena, which houses his relics and is a popular pilgrimage site.
Adjacent to the cathedral is the Piazza Grande, a lively square where the locals gather to socialize and enjoy the beauty of their city. This square is also home to the Palazzo Comunale, a medieval town hall with a magnificent clock tower, and the historic Palazzo dei Musei, which now houses the City Museum and the Estense Library.
Visitors can also climb the Ghirlandina Tower for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding countryside. The tower's narrow staircase may be a challenge, but the panoramic views from the top are well worth it.
Overall, the Kathedrale von Modena and its surrounding area offer a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of this charming Italian city. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a religious pilgrim, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to this magnificent cathedral and its surroundings is sure to be a memorable experience.
The magnificent 12th-century cathedral at Modena, the work of two great artists (Lanfranco and Wiligelmus), is a supreme example of early Romanesque art. With its piazza and soaring tower, it testifies to the faith of its builders and the power of the Canossa dynasty who commissioned it.
Modena (UK: , US: ; Italian: [ˈmɔːdena] ; Modenese: Mòdna [ˈmɔdnɐ]; Etruscan: Mutna; Latin: Mutina) is a city and comune (municipality) on the south side of the Po Valley, in the Province of Modena, in the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy.
A town, and seat of an archbishop, it is known for its car industry since the factories of the famous Italian upper-class sports car makers Ferrari, De Tomaso, Lamborghini, Pagani and Maserati are, or were, located there and all, except Lamborghini, (having their factory in Sant'Agata Bolognese), have headquarters in the city or nearby. One of Ferrari's cars, the 360 Modena, was named after the town itself. Ferrari's production plant and Formula One team Scuderia Ferrari are based in Maranello south of the city.
The University of Modena, founded in 1175 and expanded by Francesco II d'Este in 1686, focuses on economics, medicine and law, and is the second oldest athenaeum in Italy. Italian military officers are trained at the Military Academy of Modena, and partly housed in the Baroque Ducal Palace. The Biblioteca Estense houses historical volumes and 3,000 manuscripts. The Cathedral of Modena, the Torre della Ghirlandina and Piazza Grande are a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997.
Modena is also known in culinary circles for its production of balsamic vinegar.
Famous Modenesi include Mary of Modena, the Queen consort of England and Scotland; operatic tenor Luciano Pavarotti and soprano Mirella Freni, born in Modena itself; Enzo Ferrari, eponymous founder of the Ferrari motor company; Catholic priest Gabriele Amorth; chef Massimo Bottura; comics artist Franco Bonvicini; the band Modena City Ramblers and singer-songwriter Francesco Guccini, who lived here for several decades.
