Modena, located in the heart of Emilia Romagna, is a beautiful and dynamic city, full of history and culture. If you’re in the area, here are 6 places you absolutely can’t miss:

Modena Cathedral and Ghirlandina

The Ghirlandina, elected by the people of Modena as the most beautiful bell tower in the world, is 86 meters tall and is the symbol of the city. Together with the Cathedral, it has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the highest examples of Romanesque art in Europe.

Piazza Grande and City Hall

If you have visited the Cathedral and Ghirlandina, you will find yourself in Piazza Grande. Here you cannot be enchanted by the City Hall, a refined 17th century building with porticos, and by the many palaces around it, which will take you on a tour of different historical eras. You will then surely encounter a rock, the “speech rock”, which dates back to Roman times and was considered a stone of dishonor: a whole history to discover.

Estense Gallery

This is one of those places that remain easily impressed by their refinement and elegance: at the Estense Gallery there is a unique collection, made of precious works of art owned by the Dukes of Este. Special mention goes to the romantic Estense Harp, made of maple, pear, and linden wood, with delicate tempera paintings. Every first Sunday of the month the entrance is free, with opening from 8.30am to 7.30pm.

Boario Forum

Originally built to provide livestock traders with a suitable place for their commerce, it now houses the faculty of Economics. In the center of the arches of this magnificent building you will find a large, majestic and elegant clock. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Novi Park archaeological park, a place full of surprises.

Municipal Acetaia

Modena Balsamic Vinegar (DOP and IGP) is one of the most famous products of the area. If you want to learn more about its world and origins, you can visit the Municipal Acetaia in the basement of the City Hall. Managed by the Consorteria of Traditional Modena Balsamic Vinegar, it houses three “batteries”: Secchia, Panaro, and Torre Ghirlandina.

Pavarotti Municipal Theater

The main lyric theater of Modena, built by Francesco Vandelli, architect of the court of Duke Francesco IV of Modena, in the mid-19th century. Here you can witness different theatrical works ranging from opera to ballet, to concerts, under a splendid ceiling decorated by Crespolani and Manzini.

At the end of your tour, take a relaxing break at Exé SPA in Fiorano Modenese and dedicate yourself to physical wellness in an exclusive place: face and body treatments, massages, private spas and much more await you.