Staircase of Santa María del Monte — Attraction in Caltagirone

The Staircase of Santa María del Monte in Caltagirone, Sicily, is a stunning and iconic landmark which was built in 1606 to connect the upper and lower parts of the town. The staircase features 142 steps, and what makes it unique is that each step is decorated with hand-painted ceramic tiles, showcasing intricate designs that reflect the town's rich tradition of ceramics.

The tiles on the staircase vary in pattern and color, featuring geometric shapes, floral motifs, and figures inspired by Sicily’s history and culture. The staircase is especially vibrant during the annual "La Scala Infiorata" festival, where the steps are adorned with flowers arranged in intricate patterns, or during the celebration of the feast of St. James, when the steps are illuminated by thousands of candles.

The Staircase of Santa María del Monte is a testament to Caltagirone's craftsmanship and is a beautiful example of the fusion of art, history, and...

The Staircase of Santa María del Monte in Caltagirone is a breathtaking cascade of 142 steps, each decorated with hand-painted ceramic tiles that narrate Sicily’s artistic and cultural heritage from the 10th to the 20th century. Walking up feels like ascending through layers of history, where every riser is a window into the island’s soul. The staircase is not just an architectural masterpiece but a living symbol of Caltagirone’s centuries-old ceramics tradition. Unfortunately, we visited on a Sunday, when nearly all the artisan workshops and shops were closed, leaving us without the chance to experience the vibrant craftsmanship that usually brings the...

We actually planned our visit to coincide with the St. James Festival as part of our Youth Jubilee program. Being right at the front row for the St. James procession was something I’ll never forget. The energy, the devotion, the scene, it was really something special.

The area was packed with people, both locals and tourists, all celebrating together. Shops stayed open late and there was this beautiful sense of unity.

Honestly, I just feel incredibly blessed to have been part of it. It was one of those rare, meaningful moments where everything...