Modena Cathedral and Ghirlandina Tower

The Modena Cathedral and the Ghirlandina Tower are the most famous symbols of the Emilian city and represent an exceptional example of Romanesque art, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The cathedral, begun in 1099 according to the design of the architect Lanfranco with sculptures by Wiligelmo, was built to house the relics of San Geminiano, the patron saint of Modena. Its three naves, crypt, and extraordinary Genesis sculptures make it one of the greatest European Romanesque masterpieces.

Next to the Cathedral stands the Ghirlandina Tower, nearly 90 meters high, originally built as a bell tower and completed in 1319. Its octagonal spire and elegant balustrades from which it takes its name dominate the historic center. The tower also had civic functions, hosting the historic “Secchia Rapita.”

Together, the Cathedral and Ghirlandina tell the story, faith, and identity of Modena, making it a point of artistic and cultural reference in the Italian and European landscape.