South Puglia
Lecce
Lecce is known as the “Florence of the South”, a jewel in Salento. This ancient city, with its Baroque buildings made of local stone, has an air of history and culture around every corner. The churches are ornate with frescoes and sculptures. The noble palaces and the green gardens tell tales of Lecce’s last life, when the city was the centre of power and wealth. Let yourself be charmed by Lecce’s outstanding beauty.
What to See in Lecce
Lecce is a real open-air museum. Palaces, churches and balconies, rose windows, decorated figureheads and sculptures, piazzas and narrow streets make this city a treasure chest. Come and discover the Baroque style of Lecce.
Did you Know?
With so much charm, Lecce is also a haven of curiosities, myths, and legends, all hidden between the meandering streets that bring together mystery and memory.
It is said that Lecce was thriving 100 years before the Greeks conquered Troy. The town’s first name was Sybaris, or “city of the sun”. The ancient people weren’t wrong about this, as the sun shines in Salento almost all year round. Ask a local what they would bring with them from their area and the reply will always be the same: the sun!
A small, Neoclassical theatre with only 320 seats, and as beautiful as a jewel. Some of the most anticipated events are held here, especially the Maggio Musicale Salentino in May.
Stand in front of the Baroque San Matteo church. You’ll notice a strange difference between the two columns on the façade: the one on the left is completely without ornament whilst the one on the right is only decorated at the bottom. Legend has it that the devil was jealous of the beauty of the façade and so as punishment he killed the sculptor so he couldn’t finish his work.
The San Francesco della Scarpa church is unusual, because it doesn’t have the typical Baroque ornate facades like the other churches in Lecce. It is deconsecrated and often holds events and conventions.
Inside the Santa Teresa church, on the main door you can see the huge papiere-mache statue – dating from 1869 - of Sant’Oronzo, the patron saint of the city. The ancient art of papier-maché in Lecce was handed down from father to son until the 18th Century. It is an integral part of the artistic heritage of Salento.
Residents of Lecce have given the Palazzo del Seminario the nickname “the eighth wonder of the world” thanks to its elegant façade, its incredible decorations, the interior that holds the famous Cino well, and the best-hidden Baroque church in Lecce.
What to Do in Lecce
Some ideas that we highly recommend to make your trip to Lecce as fun and interesting as possible.
Don’t Miss
Finally, here is a selection of things you shouldn’t leave off your list of things to do in Lecce.
The Associazione Dimore Storiche Italiane organises a fascinating event on the last Sunday of May each year. The historic buildings and courtyards are opened to the public. You can visit wonderfully decorated courtyards and marvellous Baroque palaces.
The Politeama Greco holds a theatrical season with a wealth of events, including dramatic plays, opera, and cabaret.
The artisan workshops show off the local residents’ creative flair, and welcome visitors in their priceless corner of the old town.
A few kilometres from the city you can enjoy a tour of some of the most beautiful marine areas in Puglia, such as San Cataldo and Frigole, and Spiaggiabelle and Torre Chianca. These are gorgeous beaches, with crystal-clear water and unspoilt scenery.
How to get around in Puglia
Make use of our map that shows you where everything is, so you can plan your holiday in Puglia with ease.