Sicily has been a melting pot for centuries. European, North African and Arabic cultures meet here, and the result is not only unique architecture. As the Residenza Hortus in the south of Sicily shows, this also creates an extraordinary attitude to life, the radical opposite of the fast, western lifestyle.
The villa is built right next to one of the landmarks of the city of Modica: the baroque cathedral of San Giorgio. Its impressive profile is also the first thing guests see when they look out of the window. Anyone who is not woken by the gentle sound of the bells will get out of bed at the latest when they smell the Mediterranean breakfast.
But culinary delicacies also await outside the Residenza. Modica is famous for its chocolate, not to mention its red wine. The entire city, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Val di Noto, can be explored on foot. By car, all facets of colorful Sicily can be discovered within a few kilometers: the necropolis of Pantalica, the beaches of Sampieri and Pozzallo or the fishing village of Marzamemi.
The coexistence of Orient and Occident is also reflected in the house. The entire villa was renovated between 2011 and 2014. Nevertheless, distinctive elements such as archways and stone walls have been lovingly preserved. Otherwise, the Residenza Hortus is characterized by a simple, modern design. Basins, slabs and furniture made of regional stone create a traditional ambience in selected places. The Residenza Hortus is a private, secret and quiet place full of emotions, where the soul can not only unwind but also find peace.
If you want, you can take a look behind the scenes at the Residenza Hortus on our blog.
Rooms + Rates
| Apartments | from250 € |
Sustainable
ArchitectureWhen renovating the building, the emphasis was placed on a balanced interplay between beauty and sustainability. The Residenza Hortus is reminiscent of the typical Sicilian architectural style, but at the same time offers an elegant, minimalist ambience. The details make the difference: materials from the region, especially different types of stone, were used throughout. The walls and floors are clad with environmentally friendly materials and the roof is thermally insulated with cork.
FoodIn principle, you can cook for yourself in the well-equipped kitchen. However, if you prefer, you can have a Mediterranean breakfast prepared for you or have a chef explain and teach you the local cuisine. Only regional and seasonal ingredients are used, lots of fish and even more fruit. Guests also have the opportunity to sample chocolate and other sweets exclusively from the Antica Dolceria Bonajuto, Sicily's oldest chocolaterie. The wine cellar is filled with selected products from local winegrowers, all of whom are committed to the concept of slow wine.
Local craftsmen were employed to renovate the villa, and the operator Anime a Sud also employs people from the region. Once a year, they receive a personal gift to thank them for their efforts. The operator of the Residenza Hortus also supports the Italian branch of Doctors Without Borders.
EnvironmentThere is a solar system on the roof that runs the air conditioning and heats the water. Only energy-saving LED lamps are used both inside and outside, and the taps are equipped with water-saving functions.
Characteristics
- Quietly located villa in the heart of baroque Modica
- Enchanting garden with various fruit trees
- Loving combination of modern architecture and traditional elements
- Small, stone pool (plunge pool) for cooling off
- Own kitchen, Mediterranean dinner can be booked on request
- Located in the UNESCO World Heritage Site Val di Noto
- Ideal for a private and culturally varied holiday in the south of Sicily
Features
- Three suites with private bathroom, towels and bed linen included
- Large, fully equipped kitchen
- Chocolate and wine tastings
- Heated outdoor whirlpool: active from June to September (included), on request from October to May (extra charge)
- Massages can be booked
- iPad and Bluetooth hi-fi system as well as a small selection of books on art, culture and travel
- Cooking classes of Sicilian cuisine and Mediterranean dinner can be booked on site
- E-bike rental, babysitting, airport transfer can be booked on request
- Final cleaning 180,- Euro, deposit 500,- Euro
Testimonials
Durch eine schmale Gasse betritt man den wunderschönen Innenhof der "Residenza Hortus", welcher wie eine Oase inmitten der Altstadt erscheint. Der Garten mit mediterranen Pflanzen, einer Essgruppe, bequemen Loungemöbeln und Whirlpool lädt zum Verweilen ein und ist der ideale Platz, um nach einer Besichtigungstour zu relaxen. Gleich hinter dem Innenhof erhebt sich der Dom San Giorgio - ein malerischer Anblick!
Welcome to a beautiful space for six in Sicily’s chocolate capital - baroque jewel Modica. Laze in the garden, dip into the pool. The ancient house in the centre of Modica, hiding down tiny alleyways, has become a minimalist's dream. Helpful Amalia greets you and opens the front door to the walled garden – the 'hortus' of the name.
Rooms + Rates
| Apartments | from250 € |
Location + Directions
By plane
Comiso International Airport is only half an hour away by car, and Catania Airport is about an hour and a half away. From Catania you can easily take the bus to Modica, and from Comiso there is currently only a taxi connection. An airport transfer is available for an additional charge. Those arriving by car or rental car can park for free near the Residenza Hortus.
Availability
Meet the family
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