The staircase was originally designed as a uniform incline, but it was segmented into its current form of 142 steps in the early 17th century.
The unique majolica tiles decorating the risers were applied only in the mid-1950s, replacing previous plain stone surfaces.
The Lumnaria festival held on July 24-25 requires the manual lighting of over 3,000 'coppi' (oil lamps) to create a temporary design on the stairs.
The staircase is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site designated as one of the Late Baroque Towns of the Val di Noto.
The vertical rise of the staircase is approximately 50 meters, creating a significant gradient between the old and new town areas.
The Staircase of Santa María del Monte is a 142-step monumental outdoor staircase connecting the lower town of Caltagirone to the upper historic center. Built in 1608, the steps are surfaced with hand-painted ceramic tiles, a hallmark of the city's centuries-old pottery tradition. Each riser features a different, individually decorated majolica tile pattern reflecting various historical styles. The staircase serves as a functional thoroughfare for residents and a focal point for the town's urban layout. In July, the steps are illuminated by thousands of oil lamps arranged to form a massive glowing pattern in honor of the patron saint, San Giacomo. The structure was integrated into the wider Caltagirone urban fabric during the reconstruction following the 1693 earthquake. It connects the Piazza Municipio at the base to the Church of Santa Maria del Monte at the summit.
From the very bottom of the staircase looking up to capture the full length of the decorated risers.
Wear comfortable, grippy footwear, as the stone steps can be slippery when damp or dusty.
Plan for several short breaks during the ascent to view the varied tile designs on each level.
Visit the local ceramic workshops in the surrounding streets to understand the techniques used to create the tiles.
Do not attempt to climb the stairs during the hottest hours of a summer afternoon without water, as the exertion is significant.
The staircase is public and permanently open, though heavily crowded during the Lumnaria festival in late July.
Avoid sitting on the steps for long periods as they are a primary public walkway for locals.
