Overlooking the sea at Santa Maria di Leuca on the southernmost tip of Salento, the Sanctuary of Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae is a spiritual place that became a Minor Basilica in 1990.
The Sanctuary, which was built over the ruins of an ancient pagan temple, stands on a spacious plaza. Over the centuries, its thick masonry walls have been reconstructed several times after sustaining damage during Turkish raids.
The current façade is a simple affair decorated with pilaster strips, while indoors, the single-nave interior is illuminated by splendid stained-glass windows. Originally, there were four side chapels, but two have recently been added, one dedicated to the Holy Sacrament, the other to the Virgin Mary.
The Basilica's valuable works of art include a 1625 painting of the Madonna with Child by Andrea Cunavi of Mesagne, and a canvas of the Sacred Family donated in the 18th century by the Baroness Maria Serafini-Sauli.
Events nearby
In the coming days, within 15 km.
Karaoke
Karaoke night at Bar da Sasi to sing together.
L’asino fofo
Launch of the book "L’asino Fofo" with the author and illustrator at Libreria Idrusa.
Yuts And Culture
Yuts and Culture in concert: funk and soul of the '70s reimagined.
Salento International Film Festival 2026
International independent cinema in the heart of Salento
More places nearby
Museums and theatresMuseum in Salento - Museo Vito MeleBorn from the love of art by the sculptor Bito Mele, the Museum in Salento-
Museo Vito Mele in Castrignano del Capo is a treasure chest of work signed
by nationally renowned authors. Castrignano del Capo very close
Castles, towers and palacesLighthouse of Santa Maria di LeucaAn appealing tower perched dropping sheer into the sea on Punta Meliso. Castrignano del Capo very close
FunCascata monumentale dell’Acquedotto PugliesePuglia’s extreme tip is celebrated through a unique monument, overlooking
the exact spot where the land ends and the infinity of the sea begins. Castrignano del Capo very close
Sea and cavesSanta Maria di LeucaIn Santa Maria di Leuca there is a tourist fishing port protected by a three-armed breakwater. Castrignano del Capo very close
Sea and cavesSanta Maria di Leuca BeachOld “bagnarole”, sandy beaches and caves with water springs: the beach of
Santa Maria di Leuca offers magical bathes in Finibus Terrae. Castrignano del Capo 1.1 km away
Castles, towers and palacesVillas in Santa Maria di LeucaElegant liberty-style forms and oriental motifs characterised the magical
architectures along the promenade, embellished by wonderful villas and
noble palaces. Castrignano del Capo 1.4 km away