Holidays in Santa Cesarea Terme

Santa Cesarea Terme is a coastal town in the Salento region of Puglia, southern Italy, known for its sulfur-rich thermal waters. These waters have been used for therapeutic purposes since antiquity, but the town itself only began to develop at the end of the 19th century, when better road access made the area more reachable. It became an autonomous municipality in 1913 and took on the name Santa Cesarea Terme in 1929.

Legends:
Christian tradition speaks of a young woman, Cesarea, who fled from her father and took refuge in a cave, where she was saved by a divine miracle.

In pagan mythology, the sulfurous waters are said to come from the disintegration of the Leuterni giants, killed by Hercules.

Description
Santa Cesarea Terme is perched on dramatic cliffs overlooking the Adriatic Sea, characterized by:

Winding streets and staircases

Moorish-style architecture, including notable villas like:

Villa Sticchi (built between 1894–1900)

Villa Raffaella (from the late 19th century)

The town is most famous for its thermal spa facilities, which are centered around four natural caves. These waters are rich in sulfur, and are used to treat respiratory and skin conditions.

Typical Food
The local cuisine of Santa Cesarea Terme reflects traditional Salento flavors, including:

Orecchiette with turnip tops (orecchiette alle cime di rapa)

Fresh seafood like grilled octopus, anchovies, mussels

Fave e cicorie – a dish made with fava bean purée and wild chicory

Pasticciotto – a small custard-filled pastry

Rustico leccese – a puff pastry snack filled with tomato and mozzarella

Local olive oil and wines from nearby towns like Salice Salentino are widely used.

Activities
Santa Cesarea Terme offers both relaxation and outdoor adventure, including:

Thermal Spa Treatments: At the local spa complex, using natural thermal waters from four caves (e.g., Gattulla, Fetida, Solfurea)

Cliffside swimming and snorkeling: The rugged coast features crystal-clear waters and rocky inlets

Boat tours: Explore sea caves and hidden coves along the coast

Diving and spearfishing: Especially popular in summer months

Hiking: Coastal paths with beautiful Adriatic views

Cultural sightseeing: Visit the historic villas, and nearby towns like Otranto or Castro

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