Backstage
19. May 2021
Stylish in the midst of Sicilian baroque cities
Sicily has been a melting pot for centuries. This is where European, North African and Arab cultures meet, and the result is not just unique architecture. As the Residenza Hortus in the south of Sicily shows, this also creates an extraordinary attitude towards life, the radical contrast to the fast, western lifestyle.
The villa is built right next to one of the landmarks of Modica: the baroque Cathedral of San Giorgio. Its impressive profile is also the first thing guests see when looking out of the window. Those who are not woken up by the gentle sound of bells will get out of bed at the latest when the scent of the Mediterranean breakfast is heard.
But there are also culinary treasures outside the Residenza. Modica is famous for its chocolate, not to mention red wine. The entire city, which is part of the Val di Noto UNESCO World Heritage Site, can be explored on foot. All facets of colorful Sicily can be discovered within a few kilometers by car: 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 from 2011 to 2014. Nevertheless, characteristic elements such as archways or stone walls have been lovingly preserved. Otherwise, the Residenza Hortus is characterized by a simple, modern design. Basins, plates and furniture made from 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 dangle, but also come to rest.
If you like, you can take a look backstage on our blog.
Rooms + Rates
per night
| Apartment | from210 € |
Sustainable
ArchitectureDuring the renovation of the building, a balanced interplay between beauty and sustainability was emphasized. The Residenza Hortus shows the typical Sicilian architectural style, but at the same time offers an elegant, minimalist ambience. It&
FoodBasically you can cook yourself in the well-equipped kitchen. But if you want, you can have a Mediterranean breakfast prepared or have a cook explain and teach you the typical local cuisine. Only regional and seasonal ingredients are used, lots of fish and even more fruit. Guests also have the opportunity to exclusively taste chocolate and other sweets from Antica Dolceria Bonajuto, Sicily&
Local craftsmen were employed in the renovation of the villa, and the operator Anime a Sud mainly employs people from the region. Once a year they receive a personal gift to thank them for their commitment. The operator of Residenza Hortus also supports the Italian branch of Doctors Without Borders.
EnvironmentThere is a solar system on the roof that operates the air conditioning and heats the water. Only energy-saving LED lamps are used both indoors and outdoors, the taps are equipped with water-saving functions.
Characteristics
- Quietly located villa in the heart of the baroque Modica
- Magical garden with various fruit trees
- Loving combination of modern architecture and traditional elements
- Small, stone pool (plunge pool) to cool off
- Own kitchen, on request Mediterranean breakfast or dinner can be booked
- Located in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Val di Noto
- Ideal for a private and culturally varied vacation in the south of Sicily
Features
- Three suites with private bathrooms, towels and bed linen included
- Large fully equipped kitchen
- Chocolate and wine tastings
- Massages can be booked (from 60 euros pp)
- iPad and Bluetooth hi-fi system as well as a small selection of books on art, culture and travel
- Breakfast (€ 18 pp) and dinner (from € 70 pp) can be booked on request
- Cooking courses for Sicilian cuisine can be organised (100, - Euro pp)
- E-bikes rental, babysitting, airport transfer can be booked on request
- 80,- Euro cleaning fee
Testimonials
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.
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!
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Rooms + Rates
per night
| Apartment | from210 € |
Location + Directions
By plane
Comiso International Airport is only half an hour away by car, while Catania is around an hour and a half away. From Catania you can easily take the bus to Modica, from Comiso there is currently only a taxi connection. An airport transfer is available for an additional charge. Those arriving with their own car or rental car can park for free near Residenza Hortus.
Availability
More about this accommodation on our blog
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