Discover the delicious gnoccho fritto or fried gnoccho, Modena has a lyrical side of larger than life proportions: Luciano Pavarotti was born here. Appreciate the cathedral, the “poster child” of Italian romanesque sculpture by the Campionesi masters, and Lanfranco, including lions and telamones holding up the pillars inside. The facade shows the fears and uncertainties of medieval men with divine and monstruous figures. Piazza Grande is the heart of Modena: you can admire the medieval cathedral and the Ghirlandina tower - both have been recognised by Unesco as world heritage sites - and the Town Hall, a structure composed of various buildings that sprang up over the centuries starting in the Middle Ages. In the corner there is the ringadora stone, a medieval speakers corner.
In the nearby Piazza Roma you will find the 17th century Ducal Palace, headquarters of the Military Academy.
Itinerary
Please note that the Albinelli market shuts at 2. 30pm
Itinerary:
Cathedral of San Geminiano and the Ghirlandina tower in the heart of Modena: Piazza grande, north of Piazza grande we can visit the Palazzo ducale, headquarter of the Military academy and its garden, the historic Albinelli market, then we'll go to taste traditional Balsamic vinegar in the centre in Piazza Mazzini, which tastes better if you bring ice cream or parmesan to put it on! We will explore where the ancient Jewish ghetto was and where the synagogue is.
San Francesco church and the lamentation of Christ by Antonio Begarelli.
Then a quick stop at the Vacchetta Grassa, a historical leather shop which still produces hand-made products.
Meeting Point Options: Rail or Bus Station, Hotel, Monument/Building, Suggested by Guide: Cathedral museum, Piazza Grande.
End Point Options: Rail or Bus Station, Hotel, Monument/Building