Caltagirone's most evocative sight is this monumental staircase, known locally as the Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte, which rises from Piazza Municipio to the Chiesa di Santa Maria del Monte , at the top of the town. Built in the early 17th century to connect the old hilltop centre with newer developments around Piazza Municipio, it was originally divided into several flights of steps separated by small squares.
These were eventually unified in the 1880s to create the 142-step flight that stands today. The hand-painted majolica tiles were a relatively recent addition, only being added in 1956. It's all very impressive, although by the time you get to the top, you'll probably be more interested in having a sit-down than admiring the tilework. Fortunately, the huge views will quickly restore your will to move. The steps, lined with colourful ceramic shops, are at their finest during Caltagirone's annual celebration, the Festa di San Giacomo (Feast of St James) on 24 and 25 July, when the entire staircase is lit by more than 4000 oil lamps.
At the bottom of the staircase, Piazza Municipio is overshadowed by a number of grand buildings, including the Galleria Luigi Sturzo . Named after a revered former mayor, Luigi Sturzo (1871–1959), and housed in Palazzo Senatorio, where once the town senate sat, the gallery hosts temporary exhibitions and the tourist information desk.
