A monastery located outside the city of Lecce, remarkable for its simple and Romanesque beauty. It was likely founded by Tancred of Hauteville in the 12th century, during his time as Count of Lecce. According to legend, while hunting (a common pastime among the nobility at the time), he saw the image of Mary between a deer’s antlers—thus the site was named Ceratea, a variation of Cervo (deer in Italian).

Archaeological findings at the site suggest that it was once inhabited by monks. After a period of abandonment, the site was restored in 1965 by the regional authorities. The church interior is constructed from local beams and tiles, and it features rich religious carvings. The simplicity and Romanesque style are evident—especially in contrast to the elaborate Baroque found in the churches of Lecce. Frescoes discovered during the restoration were transferred to the city museum.