Renowned tourist destination in Salento peninsula, Santa Maria di Leuca lies on the gentle creek between Punta Meliso on the East and Punta Ristola on the West.
It is supposed that there was a very ancient Santa Maria di Leuca situated on Meliso promontory, where apparently there was a temple vowed to Minerva and where now the Sanctuary of Madonna di Finis Terrae is situated. An inscription at the entrance of Santa Maria di Leuca sanctuary marks the transition from the pagan cult to the Christian faith. Approximately in mid-nineteenth century Leuca started to become a holiday destination. The geographic position of Santa Maria di Leuca brought different Mediterranean populations into contact, whose influence favoured the development of a very rich culture, represented by the sumptuous villas of Leuca built in several architectural styles (from Moorish to French, from Tuscan to baroque, from gothic to Chinese).
Today Santa Maria di Leuca is still a well-known tourist destination. Along the coasts of Santa Maria di Leuca cliffs alternate with small sand creeks. There are several karst caves of big historical and naturalistic interest, and their depths attract those who love practising underwater fishing.
(Bed and Breakfast & Agritourism)
Otranto - Santa Maria di Leuca Natural Park
Salento - Puglia