Casa Alchimia

Vintage Style in Harmony with a Classic Place in History

A stylish and creative home with a light and elegant style, this house offers enchanting panoramic views of Modica and an interesting handpicked selection of art created by the owner. 

Located above the city on a very quiet street in the historic center, this home is a unique fusion of past and present and a romantic refuge. Arranged over two floors, the intuitively divided and restored space has preserved the original soul and character of the early 20th-Century structure.

The main living area is intimate and bright and includes a comfy sitting area, a library and a fully equipped kitchen with breathtaking views from the balcony that give the impression of being suspended over the city. 

Decorated with locally salvaged antiques, contemporary art, and furnishings from around the world, the collection creates a harmonious alchemy of colours and materials against the whitewashed interiors.

The stairs in natural black pece stone lead to the romantic en suite double-aspect bedroom that features a private terrace with street views and a mansard-roofed area that's perfect for the little ones. The downstairs en suite bedroom features a custom headboard made of ancient Sicilian polychrome-majolica tiles and includes a private balcony with panoramic views. 

Enjoy the selection of Sicilian wines on the secluded terrace where you can sunbathe or marvel at the beauty of the evening lights.

Around

You’ll be perched high above the city with spectacular views across the entire historic center of Modica. Part of a staggering collection of UNESCO-designated towns in the Val di Noto (including Ragusa and Scicli), Modica sneaks up on you. A startling and amazingly dense and intricate town nestled down into a deep gorge, it's a jaw-dropping sight as you approach.

After it was leveled by the earthquake in 1693, Sicilians were serious about re-establishing this Baroque masterpiece. Duomo di San Giorgio is the centerpiece although there are multiple architectural treasures throughout the town.

Alto o Basso? Either way you need to be hearty and able-bodied for the number of steps and twists and turns in this city. Corso Umberto (basso) is the main drag with shops and dining while the medieval quarter (alto) lies above. Do both.

Cacao imports during the Spanish reign created the happy accident of a uniquely Sicilian version of chocolate found only in Modica - a delicious local specialty. Check for dates (it varies) for the Wonka-esque Eurochocolate festival held here.

Cava D'Ispica is just outside of Modica and is an odd and interesting archeological treasure. A series of neolithic burial sites and a former chapel, they were later middle ages dwellings.

Location

Modica, Sicily, Italy. Nearest airports: Comiso or Catania (90 mins)

Best time to visit

Spring through fall, but the island and the city are fascinating year-round.