The Cathedral, Ghirlandina Tower, and Piazza Grande in Modena

The Cathedral, Ghirlandina Tower, and Piazza Grande in Modena

The magnificent 12th-century cathedral in Modena, one of the finest examples of Romanesque art, was created by the great artists Lanfranco and Wiligelmo. This cathedral, together with its expansive square and soaring tower, not only demonstrates the builders’ deep loyalty to royalty but also reflects the wise decision of the Canossa dynasty in commissioning this church.

Modena was originally inhabited by the Ligurians, and the world-renowned tenor Luciano Pavarotti was born here. Near the city center, students from the prestigious Military Academy—located in the 17th-century Ducal Palace—can often be seen in their fine uniforms. The 18th-century Mosca Palace houses an intriguing art collection. The Estense Library, the library of the Este family who ruled Modena and Ferrara, holds several precious manuscripts; one is a 1481 manuscript of Dante’s Divine Comedy, and another is a beautiful Este Bible adorned with illustrations by the 15th-century Ferrarese school from around the year 1200.

Some say that if Italy can be represented by two things, they are football and Ferrari. Modena is one of Italy’s key cities in mechanical manufacturing and is home to Ferrari, the iconic symbol of Italy’s industrial achievements and excellence.

Cathedral,Torre Civica and Piazza Grande,Modena

Must-visit reason: One of the finest examples of Romanesque art

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Italy[Italy]

Province/Region where the attraction is located: Emilia-Romagna Region [Emilia-Romagna Region]

City where the attraction is located: Modena [Modena]