Republic Square is one of the most significant and popular public spaces in Ragusa Ibla, the true historical, social and cultural heart of the city. This large and scenic square is surrounded by elegant Baroque buildings of great artistic value, emphasising its importance and central role in the urban fabric. Frequented daily by residents and tourists alike, the square hosts numerous public events, traditional markets, festivals and events that contribute to keeping local culture and traditions alive. A meeting, strolling and socialising point, Piazza della Repubblica is an emblematic place where the identity and history of Ragusa Ibla is reflected, offering a suggestive and authentic glimpse of Baroque architecture and the community life of the city. It is an essential stop for those who wish to get to know the charm and soul of the historic centre.

Ragusa’s Old Bridge, also known as the Capuchin Bridge, is located on Via Traspontino and is one of the city’s historical symbols. Constructed between 1837 and 1843, it represents an important work of 19th-century engineering, built in local stone with an arched structure that harmoniously links two historical city districts, facilitating communication between the urban areas divided by the valley. The bridge is distinguished by its sober elegance and landscape integration that makes it perfectly consistent with the architecture of the historic centre. Used for over a century as the main transit route, today it has been partially pedestrianised, becoming a popular place for citizens and tourists alike for scenic walks, photographic glimpses and moments of relaxation. The Ponte Vecchio is thus not only a historical infrastructure, but also an identity and evocative point that tells the urban and social history of Ragusa.

The Palace Vescovile Schininà di Sant’Elia, located on Via Roma in the heart of Ragusa, was built in the late 18th century as the elegant residence of the noble Schininà family. The façade is sober and austere, enriched by finely carved balconies and cornices in local stone, emphasising its stately character. Inside are refined rooms with frescoed ceilings, original decorations and period furnishings that tell the aristocratic history of the city. After World War II, the building was used as the seat of the Bishop’s Curia, becoming the official residence of the Bishop of Ragusa. This transition from private residence to ecclesiastical centre made the palace an important symbol of the city’s cultural and social transformation. Today, Palazzo Schininà continues to be an important reference point for Ragusa’s religious and cultural life, hosting events and official functions.

The Palazzo della Cancelleria, located along the charming Salita Commendatore in Ragusa Ibla, was erected in the 18th century to house the city’s administrative and judicial offices. Characterised by an elegant Sicilian Baroque style, the palace is distinguished by a sober but refined façade, enriched by a rusticated portal and a central balcony that emphasise its nobility and institutional function. After the devastating earthquake of 1693, the Palazzo della Cancelleria became one of the symbols of Ragusa’s civil rebirth, embodying secular power and the community’s desire for reconstruction. Over the centuries, it has maintained a central role in the city’s administration and today still houses municipal offices. In addition, it is sometimes used as a venue for temporary cultural exhibitions, thus reinforcing its connection to the social and cultural life of the city. It is one of the key monuments for understanding Ragusa’s institutional and architectural history.

The Castle of the Counts of Modica is one of the city’s symbolic monuments and represents an important historical and architectural testimony. It stands in a dominant position on a rocky spur, whose sheer walls give the building a majestic and imposing appearance. The origins of the castle date back to medieval times, but the current structure is the result of later reconstructions, particularly after the devastating earthquake of 1693. For centuries, from the 14th to the 19th century, it was the seat of power of the County of Modica, one of the most important and influential fiefdoms of the Kingdom of Sicily. Of the ancient fortified structure, a 14th-century polygonal tower remains visible, as well as bastions, underground chambers and underground passages that add to its charm. From its summit there is a splendid view of Modica Alta and Bassa, among the most beautiful in the area. Today, thanks to recent restoration work, the castle can be visited and is part of the Val di Noto UNESCO heritage site.