Historic architecture in Modena

Modena’s historic architecture is defined by its UNESCO World Heritage core, centered on the 12th-century Romanesque Cathedral and the soaring Torre della Ghirlandina. The city’s skyline is shaped by the grand 17th-century Baroque Ducal Palace, designed by Bartolomeo Avanzini, and the expansive Piazza Roma. Religious landmarks range from the 19th-century synagogue with its circular prayer room to the Votive Church, built following the 1630 plague, and San Domenico, which houses significant terracotta sculptures by Antonio Begarelli.