The Leuca lighthouse is located on the top of Punta Meliso, on the site previously occupied by a Saracen tower, near the large square in front of the Sanctuary dedicated to the Madonna. Its construction dates back to 1864 based on a design by Eng. Achille Rossi although it entered into operation on 6 September 1866. It is equipped with a 3m diameter lantern which rests on an octagonal tower and a 2-storey building. The lantern is made up of 16 lenses, of which 6 are free and 10 are darkened. These lenses project beams of white light visible up to 50 km away which alternate with beams of red light that warn sailors of the dangerous shallows of the Ugento sea. Since 1940 the beacon has also provided an international service, giving off a signal every 4 hours in clear atmosphere and every 4 minutes in foggy weather. Inside the structure there are 4 accommodations, 3 of which are used by the light technicians and one is used as an inspection room, engine room and radio beacon room.