The 'End of the Land' - iconic lighthouse where Ionian and Adriatic seas meet
Coastal Landmark
Santa Maria di Leuca
Santa Maria di Leuca sits at the southernmost tip of Salento, where two seas meet. Home to an iconic 47-meter lighthouse and the basilica 'De Finibus Terrae' (End of the Earth), it's a romantic pilgrimage destination.
Must-See Attractions
Don't miss these highlights
The Lighthouse (Faro di Santa Maria di Leuca)
Italy's second most important lighthouse at 47 meters tall and 102 meters above sea level - iconic structure with spectacular 360-degree views
Basilica di Santa Maria di Leuca (De Finibus Terrae)
Beautiful baroque basilica built 1720-1755 commemorating St. Peter's passage - combines religious significance with architectural beauty
Piazza Terminantibus (Meeting of Two Seas)
Expansive plaza overlooking where Ionian and Adriatic seas meet - unique location for watching both sunrise and sunset from same spot
More Places to Visit
Additional attractions worth exploring
Sea Caves & Coastal Grottoes
1-2 hours (boat tour)Accessible via boat - spectacular sea caves and underwater grottoes with turquoise water
Mulino d'Acqua (Water Mill) Beach
1-2 hoursSmall pebble beach surrounded by dramatic cliffs - sheltered swimming spot with turquoise water
Pilgrimage Trail to Porto di Leuca
2-3 hoursHistoric pilgrimage path with religious stations - connects to broader Via Francigena route to Rome
Must-Try Foods
Local specialties you can't miss
Fresh Seafood (Crudo di Mare)
seafoodUltra-fresh raw seafood at the southern tip - sea urchins, oysters, clams from pristine waters
Orecchiette con Frutti di Mare
pasta dishFresh pasta with mixed seafood - showcases variety of daily catch
Burrata Cheese
cheeseCreamy fresh cheese from nearby Salento producers - simple salad preparation
Tiella ai Frutti di Mare
baked dishBaked rice with mixed seafood and local vegetables
Salento Wines (Negroamaro, Primitivo)
wineLocal wines from Salento region - perfect pairing with seafood
Recommended Experiences
Make the most of your visit
Sunrise/Sunset at Meeting of Seas
Unique opportunity to watch both sunrise and sunset from same location where two seas meet
Boat Tour to Sea Caves & Beaches
Full-day boat excursion exploring sea caves, underwater grottoes, and pristine beaches
Pilgrimage Walk on Via Francigena
Follow historic pilgrimage trail with religious stations - spiritual and physical journey
Lighthouse Visit & Panoramic Views
Climb lighthouse for 360-degree views of both seas and surrounding coastline
Romantic Dinner at Basilica Plaza
Dinner overlooking the meeting of two seas with dramatic lighting at sunset
Practical Information
Plan your visit
Best Time to Visit
April-May, September-October
Average Stay
1-2 days
Getting There
- ✈️ Brindisi Airport (90 km, 1.5 hours)
- 🚂 Limited train access - car recommended
- 🚗 Easy access; parking available
Nearby Destinations
Insider Tips
Local advice for visitors
Arrive early morning to have the lighthouse and plaza to yourself
Plan sunset viewing from the plaza - arrive 30 minutes before sunset
Book boat tours to sea caves in advance during peak season
The lighthouse offers the best panoramic views - worth the entrance fee
Combine sunrise and sunset from same location for unique experience
This is a major pilgrimage destination - respect the religious atmosphere
The two seas have noticeably different colors - perfect photography
Hotels fill quickly in peak season - book ahead
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