A sea cave on Leuca’s western coast, very close to Grotta del Fiume, known for limestone shapes traditionally associated with Nativity figures.
This cave was also archived under Felloniche–Patù. Current municipal and mapping sources place it in Santa Maria di Leuca, Castrignano del Capo; the historic filename is retained only for the old URL.
The municipality lists it among Leuca’s western caves.
Correct parent: Santa Maria di Leuca.
OpenStreetMap places Grotta del Presepio at 39.79553, 18.33935.
The mapping form is also 'Presepio'.
The speleological survey describes two separate cavities on opposite sides of a dividing wall.
Entrance is semi-submerged.
Local guides associate the name with limestone shapes resembling Nativity figures; an older religious legend is also recorded.
Treat this as local tradition, not geology.
A troglobitic sponge species, Petrobiona incrustans, was historically described here.
Do not touch formations or organisms.
It is part of western Leuca cave itineraries.
Sea and skipper decide how close the vessel goes.
The old guide encouraged reaching arches and cliff jumping.
Calm sea is not automatic permission to enter alone.
Viewing from the boat suits visitors who do not want to swim into caves.
Choose a suitably equipped boat.
Depend on the chosen Leuca boarding point.
Ask the operator for mobility details.
Water, hat, sunscreen, waterproof case, towel and light layer.
Light varies; no fixed best hour is promised.
OpenStreetMap/Mapcarta coordinates: 39.79553, 18.33935. The cave is in Castrignano del Capo; Felloniche remains only in the historic filename.
The gallery can be populated from the project photo database; no unverified local filenames are invented.
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The caves are close together but remain separate guides because of their different form, history and natural interest.
Another sea cave on the Ionian side of Santa Maria di Leuca.
Open guide Grotta marinaAnother sea cave on the Ionian side of Santa Maria di Leuca.
Open guide Grotta marinaAnother sea cave on the Ionian side of Santa Maria di Leuca.
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Editorial geography follows Santa Maria di Leuca; the old Felloniche filenames remain only for migration.
Geography, sea visits, cave features, safety and families.
