The Monumental Staircase of Santa Maria di Leuca
The Monumental Staircase of Santa Maria di Leuca is not only an architectural masterpiece of extraordinary beauty but also a symbol of the achievement of one of Italy’s greatest engineering challenges: bringing water to Salento through the Acquedotto Pugliese.
With its two ramps embracing the grand waterfall, the staircase connects the Japigian promontory (where the Basilica stands) directly to the old port, creating a majestic corridor of white stone that flows toward the blue of the Adriatic.
A Bit of History: The End of the “Great Siphon”
The work was completed in 1939 to celebrate the conclusion of the Acquedotto Pugliese project. The original design, dating back to 1868 by engineer Camillo Rosalba, was ambitious: to bring the waters of the Sele River from Caposele (Avellino) to the southern tip of Puglia.
After interruptions due to World War I and structural difficulties, the water finally reached Lecce in 1927 thanks to the so-called “Great Siphon”. The construction of the terminal branches was completed between 1931 and 1941, making Leuca the monumental endpoint of this immense artificial river.
To mark the event, at the foot of the staircase stands the Monolithic Roman Column, a gift celebrating humanity’s victory over the drought of the Salento land.
The Numbers of the Staircase and Waterfall
- Steps: Two twin ramps of 300 steps each.
- Length: Over 250 meters of linear development.
- Elevation Difference: About 120 meters between the Basilica and the sea.
- Waterfall Flow: 1,000 liters per second plunging directly into the port.
The Staircase Seen from the Sea: The Experience with Piccola Nautica
While walking down the 300 steps allows you to admire the details of the stone up close, it is only from the sea that you can truly perceive the majesty of the entire structure. The perspective offshore offers a comprehensive view that unites the Lighthouse, Basilica, Waterfall, and Staircase in a single, incredible panorama.
Piccola Nautica takes you right there:
- During our cave excursions, we stop directly in front of the monumental waterfall so you can take unique photos.
- With our boat rentals, you can safely moor in the old port and admire the staircase illuminated during the evening openings (see here the 2026 Waterfall Opening Hours).
Do not limit yourself to viewing it from above. Experience the Monumental Staircase from its natural element: the sea.
[Book your excursion now with Piccola Nautica and discover Leuca from a new perspective]
