Lecce

Known as the “Florence of the South”, Lecce is one of Italy’s most beautiful and captivating cities — a place where art, history, and Mediterranean life intertwine.
Located in the heart of the Salento Peninsula, this sun-drenched town is famous for its exuberant Baroque architecture, carved from warm pietra leccese (Lecce stone), and for its vibrant cultural spirit that has earned it a place among Europe’s must-see destinations.

Whether you’re admiring its ornate churches, exploring nearby beaches, or enjoying a glass of wine in a candle-lit courtyard, Lecce is a city that seduces the senses and nourishes the soul.

Why Visit Lecce

Lecce isn’t just a city — it’s an open-air museum. Every façade, balcony, and piazza tells a story of artistry and devotion.
Its Baroque architecture, flourishing between the 16th and 18th centuries, turned the city into a southern capital of creativity and faith.
Beyond its monuments, Lecce offers a thriving culinary scene, elegant nightlife, and easy access to the crystal-clear beaches of both the Adriatic and Ionian coasts.

1. A Journey Through History and Art

Start your visit at the magnificent Basilica di Santa Croce, the crown jewel of Lecce’s Baroque heritage. Built in the 17th century, it’s a symphony of sculpted stone — cherubs, flowers, and fantastical creatures carved into creamy pietra leccese.
Nearby stands the Church of Sant’Irene, one of the city’s oldest religious landmarks, renowned for its frescoes and serene atmosphere.

Continue your walk through the historic center:

• Visit the Roman Amphitheatre, a reminder of the city’s ancient past.

• Wander into Piazza del Duomo, one of Italy’s most beautiful squares, home to the Cathedral of Lecce and the Bishop’s Palace.

• Pass through Porta Napoli, the grand triumphal arch that once welcomed travelers from Naples.

• End your day at Piazza Sant’Oronzo, the vibrant heart of the city, where cafés, boutiques, and monuments blend effortlessly with everyday life.

2. The Stories Behind Lecce’s Treasures

The Genius of Giuseppe Zimbalo

Much of Lecce’s splendor is thanks to Giuseppe Zimbalo, the visionary sculptor and architect who shaped its Baroque identity.
Known as “Lo Zingarello”, he infused his works with movement and grace — so lifelike that legends claimed his statues were animated by the devil himself.
Today, his legacy lives on in the façades of Santa Croce, the Duomo, and countless palazzi across the city.

The Magic of Lecce Stone

Lecce’s architecture owes its harmony to its unique local stone — soft, golden, and perfectly suited for intricate carving.
Once considered fragile and useless, pietra leccese became the material of masterpieces, transforming Lecce into a city that seems sculpted by light itself.

The Organ of Santa Croce

Within the Basilica di Santa Croce lies one of Puglia’s most remarkable instruments — a historic organ built in 1776, still played during major ceremonies. Its sound fills the nave with the same beauty that inspired the artists who created it centuries ago.

3. A City That Comes Alive After Dark

When night falls, Lecce glows under soft golden lights.
Its piazzas fill with music, laughter, and conversation. Elegant wine bars and artisanal gelaterias line the streets, while live jazz and classical concerts animate summer evenings.
Whether you prefer a quiet glass of Primitivo wine under the stars or a lively night out, Lecce offers sophistication with a southern soul.

4. Taste the Flavors of Lecce

Lecce’s gastronomy reflects the warmth of Salento — generous, flavorful, and deeply rooted in tradition.
Don’t miss:

• Pasticciotto Leccese – a warm pastry filled with silky custard cream.

• Caffè Leccese – espresso served with ice and almond milk, the city’s signature refreshment.

• Vino Primitivo – a bold red wine grown in nearby vineyards.

For a gourmet experience, ask your Puglia Paradise Guest Angel to book a private dinner with a local chef or a tasting tour through Lecce’s best trattorias.

5. Explore the Beaches Near Lecce

Lecce’s location makes it the perfect base for discovering both Adriatic and Ionian coastlines:

• Porto Cesareo – long sandy beaches and turquoise waters on the Ionian side.

• Baia Verde (Gallipoli) – chic beach clubs and golden sand.

• Santa Maria di Leuca – where the two seas meet, offering breathtaking views.

• Torre dell’Orso & Baia dei Turchi – crystal waters framed by pine forests on the Adriatic.

Each beach offers a different rhythm — from luxury resorts to hidden coves — all within an hour’s drive.

Plan Your Visit

• Best time to visit: April–June and September–October for warm weather and fewer crowds.

• How to get there: 40 minutes from Brindisi Airport; well connected by train and car from Bari.

• Perfect for: Art lovers, culture seekers, and travelers who appreciate elegance, history, and Mediterranean authenticity.