Modena

Modena boasts a rich history, reaching back to Roman times as 'Mutina'. After the fall of the Roman Empire and periods of Lombard rule, the city enjoyed its heyday under the Este family, who, from the 13th century until the Unification of Italy, shaped Modena as the capital of the Duchy of Modena and Reggio.The architectural heritage is strongly marked by the Middle Ages, especially by the Duomo di Modena and its adjoining Ghirlandina Tower. These masterpieces of Romanesque architecture, along with the Piazza Grande, were declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997. The Duomo, a work by Lanfranco and Wiligelmo, is considered one of the most important examples of European Romanesque architecture.The Este era also left behind impressive structures such as the Ducal Palace, which today houses the Military Academy. Modena's cultural identity is inextricably linked with opera; the city is the birthplace of tenor Luciano Pavarotti and has deep roots in musical history. The local culture is also reflected in ancient craft traditions and the nurturing of historical festivals, which keep the city's heritage alive.

Modena is a delightfully pedestrian-friendly city, whose compact historic center is ideal for exploration on foot. There's no subway or tram here; instead, SETA's well-developed bus network forms the backbone of public transport, efficiently connecting even more distant points. Tickets can be conveniently purchased at tobacco shops, kiosks, or via the official SETA app; multi-journey tickets are worthwhile for longer stays and often offer savings.Given the flat terrain, cycling is an extremely popular and practical means of transport. Numerous rental stations and e-scooter providers allow for flexible exploration of the city on two wheels. Taxis are also available, but tend to be more expensive, and ride-sharing services are less common in Modena than in larger cities.Our tip: Immerse yourself on foot in the charming alleys of the Old Town, use the bus network for longer distances, and experience Modena like a local – preferably by bike.