The Menhir Croce alle tajate dominates the countryside of Cursi. It was built along the street which leads to the well-known caves, called “tajate”, from which the Lecce stone is extracted.
The monolith is surrounded on three sides by a drystone wall. It is eastwards and, with its 3 metres height, seems to indicated the way to the many olive trees which dot the area, recalling the ancient connection of the town with the culture of stone.
The simple and archaic form has been carved out of a light block of calcareous clay, coming from the nearby blocks. The sides are well-smooth, with rounded corners. On the west side, stands out the symbol of a cross, engraved by an ancient stone mason or by pilgrims coming from faraway lands.
Events nearby
In the coming days, within 15 km.
Volare - Reading Workshop
Reading and dialogue sessions in Collepasso with writers and young readers for the Volare project.
Mercoledì Latino
Salsa, bachata and kizomba night in Melpignano
Karaoke
Karaoke night with Sandro Stefanelli at Antichi Sapori.
OPEN+: Orientation to the World of Photography with Valentina Sergi and Giorgio Coen Cagli
Orientation meeting dedicated to photography with experts
Fiera di San Vito e Sagra del Maiale
The celebration of pork in Ortelle combines gastronomic tradition and local crafts in a convivial event.
Keys for the Future - Female Leadership: Shaping Tomorrow's Leaders
Female leadership: a day to shape tomorrow's leaders.
More places nearby
ArchaeologyMenhir Minonna, Candelora, Lama, Scinéo, Chipuro, Masseria Piccinna and
Dolmen SpecchiaThe town centre and the countryside of Melpignano are dotted with ancient
pietrefitte (dolmens and menhirs), the guardians of thousand-years old
stories. Melpignano 1.1 km away
Museums and theatresThe Ecomuseum of the Lecce stoneThe golden Lecce stone which gives life to villas, palaces and churches is
extracted in the quarries of Cursi Cursi 1.1 km away
Castles, towers and palacesMarchesale Castriota PalaceThe Palace of Melpignano was born as a defensive structure, but in
peacetime it became a noble and elegant residence, a treasure trove of
precious paintings. Melpignano 1.2 km away
Farmhouses and oil millsMelpignano Underground Olive Oil MillWell-preserved example of a Salento trappeto in the centre of the charming
town of Melpignano. Melpignano 1.3 km away
Churches and cryptsChiesa Madonna del Carmine ed Ex Convento degli AgostinianiConvent and church provide the backdrop for the Taranta Night concert and
soar just outside the historic center. Melpignano 1.4 km away
Churches and cryptsThe Crypt of Sant’OnofrioDating back to the 6th century, the Byzantine crypt of Sant’Onofrio is the
most ancient place of worship in Castrignano de’ Greci. Castrignano de' Greci 2.6 km away