Castle of the Counts of Modica What to See Tourist Guide
The Castle of the Counts of Modica, located in the heart of Alcamo, in the province of Trapani, is an imposing testimony of medieval Sicilian architecture. Built between 1340 and 1350 by brothers Enrico and Federico Chiaramonte, feudal lords of the time, the castle stands on Piazza della Repubblica, at the foot of Monte Bonifato .
Architecture and Features
The castle has a rectangular plan with four corner towers, two of which are cylindrical in shape and the other two square. The crenellated walls and single, double and triple windows give the complex an austere and imposing appearance. Inside, the honour staircase in red marble, coming from the quarries of Monte Bonifato, testifies to the attention to detail and the importance of the site .
Historical Functions
Over the centuries, the castle has performed several functions: from noble residence to military garrison, to administrative headquarters. During the period of the Counts of Modica, it became a nerve center for the management of power in the region, also hosting a prison with cells carved into the rock and deep pits used for the most dangerous prisoners .
Today, the Castle of the Counts of Modica is a symbol of the city of Alcamo and an important tourist attraction. It hosts cultural events, exhibitions and demonstrations, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in history and enjoy a panoramic view of the city and surrounding landscapes.
What to see inside the Castle
The medieval prisons
One of the most striking aspects of the castle are the old prisons, carved directly into the rock. These cells were divided according to the category of prisoners: women, common convicts, gentlemen and people awaiting trial. Some cells still contain graffiti and drawings left by prisoners, offering a touching testimony to the prison life of the time
The original structure of the castle remains a polygonal tower from the fourteenth century, which rises on the cliff and dominates the entire historic center of Modica. This tower is a distinctive feature of the castle and offers a panoramic view over the city.
The Church of Our Lady of the Medalliere
In the courtyard of the castle is the Church of Our Lady of the Medalliere, built in 1930 on the ruins of the previous church of San Leonardo. This church served as spiritual comfort for prisoners until 1865
The Underground Tunnel
An underground tunnel dug into the rock has recently been discovered and made accessible, crossing the spur on which the castle stands. This passage was used as a military patrol, adding an additional element of interest to the visit .
Opening hours
The Castle is open to the public every day at the following times:
Morning: from 09:00 to 13:00
Afternoon: from 14:00 to 18:00
These times allow visitors to explore the castle both in the morning and in the afternoon, offering flexibility in planning their visit.
Tickets and rates
The entrance to the Castle of the Counts of Modica requires a ticket of € 3.00. A single ticket is also available at a cost of €10.00 that allows access to the Civic Museum, the Castle of the Counts and the Palazzo dei Mercedari. For information on any concessions or reductions, we recommend you consult the information provided by the Ministry of Cultural Goods and Activities (MIBAC).
What to expect from the visit
During the visit, visitors can explore the ancient prisons, historic halls and enjoy a panoramic view of the city of Modica. The castle also hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events that enrich visitors’ experience.
Useful tips
Accessibility: The castle is accessible to visitors with reduced mobility.
Duration of the visit: It is recommended to spend at least an hour exploring the castle and its surroundings.
Photography: Taking photographs inside the castle is permitted; however, it is recommended to follow staff instructions regarding the use of flash and areas where photography may be restricted.
For further information and updates on events and exhibitions, you can visit the official website of the castle:
A visit to the Castle of the Counts of Modica offers an immersion in Sicilian history and culture, making it an unmissable experience for anyone in the region.
Conclusion
Visiting the Castle of the Counts of Modica in Alcamo means taking a journey back in time, discovering the historical events that shaped medieval Sicily. Its impressive architecture and the stories it tells make it a must-see for anyone who wants to explore the island’s cultural heritage.
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