Characteristic place between the Melìso peak and the Rìstola peak at the foot of Capo S.Maria of Leuca is the ancient Salentinum Promontorium which is at the extreme edge of the heel of Italy and formed by a calcareous cliff that stretches out to sea at Punto Meliso
On the square of the promontory there is a column originating from the Orient that announces, according to tradition ,the place where St. Peter would have preached In accordance with an ancient legend S.Pietro struck by the charms of the place, stated that it was necessary to go to Leuca at least once during a lifetime. On the rock-cliff of the Melìso the sanctuary of Santa Maria from Finibus Terrae was built on the area where anciently rose the temple dedicated to the Minerva goddess, the sanctuary preserves a picture of the Virgin with child. It is the most important center of spirituality in the Salento.

On April 13th there is a festival in order to protect Our Lady and is fondly followed by the local fishermen, The principal festival is on 15th August where the "simulacreo" is carried on a fishing boat and followed by many crafts in a solemn procession out to sea.

The caves not far from here are very suggestive: Porcinara and Diavolo called so because the soul of the Baron of Castra transformed in demon resides here. The legend narrates that fishermen who are lured here and approach Rìstola peak are killed heathenly.
Other series of caves: Del Fiume, Del Presepio, Delle Tre Porte, del Bambino, dei Gigante, della Stelle, del Drago, and many others in dialect called: del Burrau, di Ortocupo, delle Cappeddhe, delle Satizze, del Cacateddhu and even more.
Useless to say that for scubo lovers here is the ideal place to see the wonders of the caves and the sea bed and as St. Peter said you should go at least once to this extreme edge of Italy: it's worth it!