The Scala-di-Santa-Maria-del-Monte, known as the Holy Stairs, is a significant religious site located in the town of Caltagirone in Sicily, Italy. This monumental staircase, made of local limestone, spans 142 steps and connects the old town at the top to the newer part of the city below.
Constructed in the 17th century, the Scala-di-Santa-Maria-del-Monte was part of the urban development of Caltagirone during the Baroque period. The stairs were built to provide access to the Santa Maria del Monte Church, which itself was constructed between 1606 and 1633. The church was intended to serve as a votive offering after the town was spared from the plague. The staircase's construction took place from 1608 to 1648, showcasing the architectural and artistic trends of that time.
The Scala-di-Santa-Maria-del-Monte is not only an architectural marvel but also a symbol of the town's religious devotion and community spirit. It has become a focal point for religious processions, particularly during Easter, when the faithful ascend the stairs in a penitential act. Furthermore, it serves as a venue for cultural events, drawing both locals and tourists to its grandiosity and historical significance.
In 2002, the staircase was included in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites as part of the "Late Baroque Towns of the Val di Noto," recognizing its outstanding universal value as an example of late Baroque art and architecture.