Lecce

<< Apulia

Lecce is a city located at the center of the historical region of Salento, in Apulia. Founded by the Messapians and later inhabited by the Romans, Lecce rose to prominence in the Late Middle Ages, becoming one of the most important cities in Southern Italy. During the 17th century, the city was adorned with several Baroque monuments, churches, and palaces. Lecce is now known for its Baroque architecture, and as an important agricultural and industrial center.

✪ Basilica of Santa Croce

The Basilica of Santa Croce is a church in Lecce, regarded as the best example of the Baroque architecture of the city. Built between the 16th and 17th century, the church is known for its extremely elaborate facade, which features a large rose window and numerous intricate statues and decorations. The interior also houses many artworks and other Baroque decorations. Adjacent to the basilica is Palazzo dei Celestini, a large Baroque palace and former convent now hosting administrative offices.

✪ Lecce Cathedral

Also known as: Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta (Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta)

The Lecce Cathedral (Duomo di Lecce) is a historic church erected in the 12th century in the center of Lecce. The church was later reworked with Romanesque elements and Baroque additions, and features a tall bell tower. The cathedral also has a really elaborate entrance, and the interiors are richly adorned with many artworks. The church faces Piazza del Duomo, which also features the historic Palazzo del Seminario and Palazzo Arcivescovile.

Lecce Castle

The Lecce Castle is a large castle located in the center of Lecce. The fort was built in the 16th century, under the rule of Holy Roman Emperor Charles V, replacing a previous medieval structure. Later serving as military barracks, now it is used for cultural activities and it is still very well preserved.

Roman Amphitheater of Lecce

The Roman Amphitheater of Lecce (Anfiteatro Romano di Lecce) is the most important ancient monument of the city. The large amphitheater was built between the 1st and 2nd century, and could host up to 25,000 spectators. Most of the structure has been brought to light, and stands next to Piazza Sant’Oronzo, one of the main squares of the city. Adjacent to the amphitheater and facing the square are also the 17th-century Column of Sant’Oronzo (Colonna di Sant’Oronzo), the Sedile, which formerly served as town hall, and the Church of San Marco, both erected in the 16th century.

Church of Sant’Irene

The Church of Sant’Irene is a Baroque church in the center of Lecce, erected between the 16th and 17th century. The church has a decorated facade, while inside are numerous elaborate chapels with several paintings and other artworks.

Church of Santa Chiara

The Church of Santa Chiara is a Baroque church in the center of Lecce. Originally built in the 15th century, it was reworked with Baroque additions in the 17th century. The church features an elaborate facade, and its interior is also richly adorned with many artworks and decorations.

Roman Theater of Lecce

The Roman Theater of Lecce (Teatro Romano di Lecce) is an ancient theater in the center of Lecce. Built around the 1st or 2nd century, it was excavated during the 20th century. Next to the theater is a small museum dedicated to this structure.

Church of San Matteo

The Church of San Matteo is a historic church in the center of Lecce. It was built in the late 17th century in Baroque style, and features a blend of convex and concave surfaces. Inside the church are several elaborate Baroque decorations and artworks.

Monument to the Fallen

The Monument to the Fallen (Monumento ai Caduti) is a monument just outside the old town of Lecce, dedicated to the fallen soldiers of World War I. In front of the monument is Porta San Biagio, a historic city gate built in the 18th century.

Sigismondo Castromediano Archaeological Museum

The Sigismondo Castromediano Archaeological Museum (Museo Archeologico Sigismondo Castromediano) is a museum of art and archaeology in Lecce. The museum houses numerous archaeological findings dating from the Messapian and Roman era, but also features a collection of artworks dating between the Middle Ages and the 18th century.

Basilica of San Giovanni Battista al Rosario

The Basilica of San Giovanni Battista al Rosario is a historic church located at the western end of the old town of Lecce. The church was erected between the 17th and 18th century, and features an extremely elaborate Baroque facade adorned with several sculptures. The interior of the basilica also houses various artworks. Just outside the church is Porta Rudiae, a historic city gate erected in 1703 to replace an older structure.

Porta Napoli

Porta Napoli is a triumphal arch and former city gate located at the northwestern edge of the old town of Lecce. The structure was erected in 1548 and features some Baroque decorations. Near the arch is the Obelisk of Terra d’Otranto, erected in the 19th century in the style of ancient Egyptian obelisks.

Church of Santi Niccolò e Cataldo

The Church of Santi Niccolò e Cataldo is a medieval church located at the northwestern edge of Lecce. Founded in 1180, the church was built in Romanesque style, and features an intricate portal and various Baroque sculptures on its facade. Inside, the church is richly frescoed and houses several artworks.

Abbey of Santa Maria a Cerrate

The Abbey of Santa Maria a Cerrate (Abbazia di Santa Maria a Cerrate) is a historic religious site located in the countryside northwest of Lecce. The abbey was erected in Romanesque style between the 12th and 13th century and features an elaborate portal and other medieval decorations. The interior is adorned with various ancient frescoes, while next to the abbey is a small museum of local culture and traditions.