Casa Talía: An Oasis of Slow Living in Sicily’s Baroque Heart
8 Rooms | 2 Houses | 1 Pool
Casa Talía overlooks the baroque beauty of Modica, a UNESCO World Heritage city in Southern Sicily. It comprises small houses restored with natural materials typical of Sicilian tradition. Infused with a Mediterranean atmosphere, the property features a central garden planted with native species, offering a tranquil space to unwind.
Architects Marco Giunta and Viviana Haddad left behind the fast-paced life of Milan to create Casa Talía, an expression of their dedication to sustainable living and thoughtful design. Inspired by Arabic architecture, the property’s layout mirrors a riad, with independent rooms arranged around a central garden—a tranquil oasis planted with native Sicilian flora. Energy-efficient domotic systems minimize resource use, while restoration efforts prioritize natural, ecological materials, including lime plaster and bamboo. Every detail reflects a commitment to harmony with the local environment and a respect for Sicily’s heritage.
The eight rooms, ranging from 23 to 39 square meters, feature unique designs. Highlights include bamboo ceilings, stone walls, and terracotta floors with Arabic patterns, while others showcase polished desert-hued floors or striking red and black ceramics. Each room is set on a different level of the natural terrain, with its terrace or balcony providing panoramic views of the historic city. Two additional houses, located just steps away, provide fully equipped kitchens and accommodations for up to five guests each, ideal for families or small groups.
Guests are welcomed with a locally sourced breakfast served in the garden, including organic produce from the hotel’s vegetable patch. Vegan and vegetarian options are available, and all food waste is composted, underscoring the hotel’s eco-conscious approach.
Located in the Val di Noto, the surroundings invite exploration. Natural caves, olive groves, and traditional farms dot the countryside. Nearby towns such as Ragusa, Caltagirone, Scicli, Ispica, Noto, and Siracusa offer a rich tapestry of art and architecture. The area is rich in oenological and gastronomic specialties, including Nero d’Avola wine, Ragusano DOP cheese, Frigintini oil, Pachino tomatoes, and the famous chocolate of Modica.
At Casa Talía, unwind by the pool with views of the Duomo di San Giorgio or explore nearby towns. The Ragusa province, a less-traveled gem, offers 50 miles of pristine coastline, home to quaint fishing villages, and secluded beaches and the seashores of Sampieri, Marina di Modica, and Marina di Ragusa. Activities include windsurfing, sailing, and horseback riding. Discover the region at your own pace on an electric bike or scooter for an authentic Italian experience. Conclude your day with a soothing massage, crafted with natural, local ingredients.
Sustainability Criteria
- The hotel promotes diversity and fair pay and employs local staff
- Over 40% of management positions are held by women
- Much of the electricity comes from renewable sources
- There’s a domotic system installed to save energy and water
- For breakfast, there is a selection of local organic products
- Airline goods are avoided
- Casa Talía has its own fruit and vegetable garden
- The house has been completely renovated according to ecological building standards, retaining all the original features of the exterior of the property, such as color and style
- The furniture made from recycled material, vintage pieces and the wooden
- Water is offered in glass bottles
- Disposable plastic is avoided wherever possible
- Waste is separated and leftover food is composted
- Employees receive training on how to recycle properly
Photos
Features & Activities
- Holiday Villa, Chalet or Cabin
- Culture
- Hotel in a Historical Building
- Hotel Close to Nature
- Pool at the Property
Location
Casa Talía is located in the hillside above Modica’s historic center. A short 15-minute walk brings you to the Castello dei Conti or the Duomo di San Giorgio.
The hotel is accessible from Comiso Airport (40 minutes by car), Catania (1.5 hours), and Palermo (4 hours). For a more eco-friendly option, you can reach Sicily by boat from the Italian cities of Genoa, Livorno, Civitavecchia, and Naples.
