Alberobello Day-Trip

If you are in Puglia or are thinking of organizing a vacation in this beautiful region, do not forget to include a day trip to Alberobello in your travel itinerary.

The town, known for its characteristic trulli (we talk about them better here) offers a unique combination of natural beauty, history, traditions and typical flavors.

What to do and see in Alberobello in one day

1. Walk among the trulli. The first thing that strikes visitors to Alberobello is certainly its unique architecture. The most famous neighborhood, Rione Monti, is a labyrinth of white trulli, most of which are used as b&bs and/or holiday homes, souvenir shops and restaurants. It is the perfect place to take a quiet walk, take breathtaking photos and discover hidden corners. Do not forget to stop in front of the famous Church of Sant’Antonio, a trullo transformed into a church, a unique example of religious architecture. Do not miss the Rione Aia Piccola, the most “authentic” and ancient part of Alberobello, with mostly residential trulli. Here, a stop at the Belvedere of Alberobello is a must!

2. Visit to the Trullo Sovrano. For those who want to discover how families lived in the trulli, a visit to the Trullo Sovrano is a must. This is the largest trullo in Alberobello, with two floors and furnished like a traditional home. It is a great way to understand the history and culture of the village.

3. Visit to the Trullo Siamese. Legend has it that two brothers lived in the Trullo Siamese, both protagonists of a love triangle with a young woman from the village. The eldest of the brothers, promised to the girl, had to deal with the betrayal of his beloved, who fell in love with the younger brother. The cohabitation between the three became unbearable, leading the older brother to chase away the two lovers. The story takes an unexpected turn when the younger brother decides to appeal the right to inherit his share of the trullo. In an act of wisdom and justice, the Trullo Siamese was divided into two parts, each brother being given his own conical dwelling. This symbolic act, a compromise that balanced the needs of both brothers, highlights the theme of brotherhood and divided love that characterizes the Trullo Siamese.

4. Discover the history of the trulli at the Museo del Territorio. The small but remarkable museum houses in 15 interconnected trulli, numerous artifacts and exhibits regarding the origins of the trulli and the extraordinary peasant culture that underpins it.

5. Tour with tasting of typical products. Take a break from sightseeing with a tasting tour and savor the local products: olive oil, wine, fresh cheeses, focaccia barese, orecchiette with turnip tops and, of course, panzerotto, a typical fritter filled with mozzarella and tomato. Don’t forget to try taralli and caciocavallo, two products much loved by the people of Puglia.

6. Attend a ceramic workshop. To take home a piece of Alberobello, attend a ceramic workshop where you can learn to decorate dishes and objects in a traditional style. It is a fun experience and an opportunity to take home an authentic memory of the place.

If you are planning a visit to Alberobello, we strongly recommend that you stop at least one night to sleep in a trullo. This will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of the place, breathing in the history and tradition of the past.

How to organize your visit

If you want to visit Alberobello in a comfortable and worry-free way, you can opt for an organized tour with a private driver. This way, you can enjoy the beauty of the landscape of the Itria Valley without the stress of driving, and you will have time to explore Alberobello calmly, without being subject to public transport timetables.

Lecce, the capital of the Baroque Salento, is the favorite destination for tourists visiting Salento. The city offers its visitors not only an unparalleled historical and cultural wealth, but also a shopping experience that combines style, tradition and quality. Walking through the streets of the historic center, among historic buildings and elegant squares, you can discover a selection of shops that satisfy every type of need, from the most accessible brands to high fashion ones.

The main streets for shopping in Lecce

The beating heart of Lecce shopping is found in the historic center, where the streets and squares intertwine in a path that is a real discovery. Via Giuseppe Mazzini, one of the main commercial arteries, is the reference point for the most exclusive and high-end shopping. Here you can find boutiques of Italian and international designers, with elegant windows displaying the latest collections.

A few steps away, there is Via Libertini, where you can explore a mix of clothing, footwear and accessory shops, from large chains to local brands. The narrow streets around Piazza Sant’Oronzo and the famous Piazza Duomo are perfect for discovering local artisan shops, jewelers and small ateliers offering unique handmade pieces.

Whether it’s a stroll through high-fashion shops or a bargain hunt, Lecce has something for everyone. For those looking for trendy clothes but keeping an eye on their wallet, the historic center also offers fast fashion shops, with brands loved by young people such as Zara, H&M and Benetton, which allow you to renew your wardrobe with style and at affordable prices.

For those who want to shop for luxury, Lecce does not disappoint. The high-fashion boutiques on Via Mazzini host the big names in Italian and international fashion, such as Gucci, Prada, Ferragamo and Louis Vuitton, where visitors can discover the latest collections and shop in an exclusive environment. The high quality of the leather, fabrics and fine materials is reflected in every single product, offering a shopping experience that makes every customer feel like a VIP.

Local craft shops

A fundamental aspect of shopping in Lecce is the possibility of taking home a piece of Salento craftsmanship. Many shops in the city offer local products, such as hand-painted ceramics, silver jewelry and custom-made leather shoes, an artisan excellence that tells the story and tradition of Puglia. Don’t forget to visit the shops that sell the famous Salento “pizzo” and the typical “papier-mâché“ shops, an intrinsic art of Lecce culture.

Traditional food shops

A stroll through the shopping streets of Lecce cannot ignore the discovery of its flavors. The city is also famous for its gastronomic delicacies, so we recommend stopping in one of the historic cafes or typical trattorias to taste the typical pasticciotto, the typical Lecce dessert, or a rustico salentino, a tasty snack that will make you feel even more immersed in the local culture. Not to be missed in the streets around Piazza Sant’Oronzo, a stop in one of the many Apulian taralli shops where you can find the most varied flavors of both sweet and savory taralli!

Lecce, a charming corner of Puglia, is a city that enchants visitors with its thousand-year history, lively traditions and its unmistakable architectural style: the Lecce Baroque. Often called the “Florence of the South”, Lecce is a true open-air museum that deserves to be discovered in all its nuances. If you are planning an itinerary in Lecce, here is a list of the 10 places and monuments that you absolutely must not miss.

1. Piazza del Duomo: a jewel in the beating heart of Lecce

Piazza del Duomo is the beating heart of Lecce, a place that will leave you breathless. Surrounded by imposing baroque buildings, the square is dominated by the majestic Duomo di Lecce. Do not miss a visit inside the cathedral and climb the bell tower to enjoy a spectacular view of the city. In the evening, the lighting makes this place even more suggestive. During the Christmas holidays, the courtyard of the Piazza hosts the nativity scene with a series of light installations that are reflected on the facade of the Duomo and the surrounding buildings.

2. Basilica of Santa Croce: a masterpiece of Lecce Baroque

Another masterpiece of Lecce Baroque is the Basilica of Santa Croce. The facade, decorated with a myriad of details, is a perfect example of the art that characterizes the city. Entering inside, you will find yourself in front of a serene and majestic atmosphere, ideal for a visit that will leave you speechless.

3. Roman Amphitheater: a leap into the past

If you are a history buff, you cannot miss the Roman Amphitheater. Located in Piazza Sant’Oronzo, this ancient amphitheater hosted games and shows during the Roman era and today offers a fascinating spectacle for visitors. The well-preserved ruins will allow you to imagine ancient Lecce and its traditions.

4. Piazza Sant’Oronzo

More than a simple square, Piazza Sant’Oronzo is a sort of living room of the city of Lecce, elegant and refined. In fact, some of the most significant buildings overlook the square, including the Palazzetto del Sedile (the ancient municipal seat), the Church of San Marco and the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, as well as the aforementioned Roman Amphitheater. In the center of the square, stands the column donated to the city by Brindisi, on top of which the statue depicting Sant’Oronzo was placed.

5. Porta Napoli: the entrance to the “old” city

Porta Napoli is one of the main entrance gates to the old city and is one of the most representative structures of Lecce. Its grandeur and neoclassical style will welcome you at the beginning of your adventure. Accompanying the “Gate”, the imposing Obelisk, erected in honor of the king of the Two Sicilies Ferdinand I of Bourbon, who had promoted the construction of the Lecce-Taranto road, projecting Lecce outside its walls.

6. Faggiano Museum

If you want to discover the city’s past in a unique way, visit the Faggiano Museum. The historic building owned by the Faggiano family, used as a museum, offers the opportunity to visit interesting historical-archaeological testimonies (tombs, cisterns, granaries, walkways, etc.), resurfaced during the restoration work, referring to different historical periods starting from the Messapians.

7. The Castle of Charles V

The Castle of Charles V is one of the main fortifications of the city, built in the 15th century. Today it hosts cultural events, exhibitions and demonstrations. In this article we talk about it in more detail.

8. The Churches of Lecce

Lecce is a city full of churches, each with its own history and beauty. In addition to the aforementioned Basilica of Santa Croce and the Cathedral, don’t miss the Church of San Matteo, an extraordinary example of Baroque, and the Church of Sant’Irene, which hides frescoes and works of art of great value inside. Every church in Lecce tells a story, and every corner holds surprises.

9. Roman Theater

In addition to the famous Roman Amphitheater (in Piazza Sant’Oronzo), we recommend you also head to the Roman Theater, also in the center. The complex is nothing less than the only example of civil architecture intended for theater in all of Puglia, discovered by pure chance in 1929. Inside, the stage is still clearly visible, 6 meters wide and more than 30 meters long, on which the performances were performed. The 5,000 spectators instead took their seats on the front steps.

10. Sigismondo Castromediano Museum

For history buffs, a visit to the Sigismondo Castromediano Museum is a must! The Museum, owned by the Province of Lecce, allows you to deepen your knowledge of Salento through the exhibition of interesting archaeological finds dating back to prehistoric times and in particular to the Messapian and Roman domination.

Lecce, located in the heart of Salento, is one of the most fascinating and historically rich cities in Puglia thanks to the important historical-artistic testimonies of its buildings and monuments. Not only that, Lecce also lends itself to the organization of numerous itineraries thanks to its privileged position, close to the beaches of the Salento coast and characteristic villages. If you are planning a visit, here are the main activities to do in Lecce and its surroundings to best experience this enchanting city.

In this article, we recommend some excellent structures for your stay; while in this article, some itinerary ideas in Puglia depending on the days at your disposal.

1. Walk in the historic center of Lecce

Enter the pulsating heart of Lecce through one of its main “gates”: Porta Rudiae, Porta Napoli and Porta San Biagio and lose yourself along the narrow streets of the historic center. Explore the most hidden squares and stop in the numerous artisan shops that sell ceramics, fabrics and typical products of Salento. Every corner of Lecce is a small masterpiece to be discovered. In this article we recommend the most important monuments to visit in Lecce.

2. Tasting typical dishes: Salento cuisine

Salento cuisine is another reason to visit Lecce. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste typical dishes such as “puccia” (a sort of Salento focaccia filled with cured meats and other condiments), “rustico“, “pasticciotto“, the most famous dessert of the city, accompanied by the typical “lecce coffee“ with almond milk. Don’t miss the “frisa” and “taralli“.

3. Visit the “underground Lecce”

Perhaps not everyone knows that there is an underground Lecce, formed over the centuries, nymphaeums, oil mills, cisterns, granaries, Roman roads and escape routes are just some of the places hidden under the streets of the city. There is also a small river that flows under the historic center and you can partly see it by visiting some of Lecce’s buildings. The tour includes a visit to the hypogeum of the Duomo, the ancient Roman cisterns, the underground Roman amphitheater and numerous secret tunnels and passages that connect different areas of the city.

4. Trekking at the Costa Otranto-Santa Maria di Leuca Regional Natural Park

If you want to take a break from the city and immerse yourself in nature, the Costa Otranto-Santa Maria di Leuca Regional Natural Park is the perfect choice. It is located a short distance from Lecce and offers a variety of hiking and biking trails, breathtaking views and a crystal clear sea that will captivate you.

5. Relaxing day at the seaside

You can’t visit Lecce without taking a trip to the beautiful beaches of Salento. The Lecce coast is famous for its crystal clear waters and golden beaches. The towns of Torre dell’Orso, San Foca and Melendugno are just some of the ideal destinations for a relaxing day at the seaside. Not to be missed if you come to Puglia in the summer!

6. Discover the Salento villages

Salento, a land rich in history and traditions, offers numerous charming villages to discover around Lecce. Among these we recommend Otranto, with its medieval historic center and splendid cathedral; Galatina, famous for the Basilica of Santa Caterina d’Alessandria; Nardò, with its baroque architecture and evocative old center; Acaya, a small but picturesque village that boasts a well-preserved castle and a timeless atmosphere, ideal for a peaceful stroll.

7. Take a Salento cooking class

Instead of simply eating, try cooking with a Salento cooking class. Several local cooking schools offer hands-on lessons where you can learn to prepare typical dishes such as orecchiette, purée di fave or pasticciotto, the famous Lecce dessert. An engaging and tasty experience!

8. Papier-mâché workshop

Lecce is famous for its artisan tradition linked to papier-mâché. Many of the city’s workshops allow you to closely observe the process of creating these works, which range from traditional masks to artistic sculptures. Some artisans also offer workshops where you can try to create your own unique piece.

Located in the historic center of Lecce, the Cathedral stands in one of the most evocative squares in Italy: Piazza del Duomo. This square, which surrounds the cathedral, is one of the most iconic places in Lecce, the hub of the city’s religious life. Here you can breathe in the quiet and fascinating atmosphere of the city, where time seems to have stopped.

The Duomo of Lecce: the church with two facades

The Cathedral of Lecce, dedicated to Maria Santissima Assunta, was built between 1659 and 1670 on a pre-existing medieval church. It was Giuseppe Zimbalo, known as Zingarello, who took care of the seventeenth-century restoration of the church and the construction of the bell tower. The architect chose not to alter the original plan and to stick to the dimensions of the previous Romanesque church.

Due to its position, oriented laterally with respect to the entrance to the square, the Cathedral was equipped with a second facade built on the left side. This “second facade” welcomes all visitors coming from Via Palmieri and entering the square, enchanting them with its statues and rich baroque decorations. In 2000, on the occasion of the Jubilee, the Cathedral was enriched with a new masterpiece, an imposing monumental bronze door, positioned on the main facade, the work of the Galatina artist Armando Marrocco.

Other historic buildings, including the Bishop’s Palace and the Bell Tower, fascinate visitors, adding further charm to the whole.

The masterpieces inside the Duomo

Inside, the Cathedral has a Latin cross plan, with three naves divided by pillars and semi-columns. The entire central nave and the transept are covered by a valuable 17th-century false ceiling in carved wood and enriched with gilding in which the paintings are set: “The Preaching of St. Oronzo”, “Protection from the Plague” and “The Martyrdom of St. Oronzo” and in the transept, “The Last Supper”. No less important are the various colored stained glass windows that allow the characters of the Bible to be seen through transparency, in a play of light.

The crypt

Through the stairs located in the main nave, you descend into an underground area of ​​the Cathedral: the Crypt of the Duomo.

The 16th-century crypt, dedicated to the Virgin Santa Maria della Scala, has numerous chapels and altars inside, with decorations and frescoes that date back to different historical periods. The architecture of the crypt is characterized by arches, columns and vaults, typical of Lecce Baroque art.

Having been a burial area, funerary epigraphs and ossuaries are still present in the majolica flooring. Local tradition has it that the relics of the saints Oronzo, Giusto and Fortunato, patrons of Lecce, were buried in the Crypt. However, despite several explorations carried out in different eras, they have never been found.

If you are visiting Lecce, one of the most fascinating cities in Salento, do not miss the opportunity to explore its surroundings. Porto Cesareo, Torre Lapillo, Galatina, Gallipoli and Torre dell’Orso are some of the unmissable destinations that will allow you to discover other wonders of this region, famous for its natural beauty, history and tradition. Here is what to see in these places.

Porto Cesareo and its heavenly beaches

Just 30 kilometers from Lecce, Porto Cesareo is one of the most popular seaside resorts in Salento. Famous for its crystal clear waters and sandy beaches, Porto Cesareo is the ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and nature. The Riserva Naturale Orientata di Torre Squillace and thePorto Cesareo Marine Protected Area are perfect places for a walk immersed in nature, along coastal paths and breathtaking landscapes.

In addition to its natural beauty, Porto Cesareo also boasts a village overlooking the sea with restaurants offering typical fish-based dishes. A tip? Taste the famous “frise” of Salento, the summer dish par excellence.

2. Gallipoli: the pearl of the Ionian Sea

About 40 kilometers from Lecce, Gallipoli is one of the most iconic cities in Salento, known for its timeless beauty and its crystal-clear sea. The old city, located on an island connected to the mainland by a bridge, is a labyrinth of alleys, baroque churches and sea views. Don’t miss the Cathedral of Sant’Agata, with its baroque style, and a visit to the Castle of Gallipoli, which dominates the coast and offers a spectacular view.

Gallipoli is also famous for its beaches, such as Baia Verde and Lido Pizzo, ideal places for those seeking sun and sea. The nightlife, especially lively in the summer, is another aspect that attracts tourists from all over the world, with clubs and discos that act as a backdrop to the beauty of the sea.

3. Galatina: between history, art and tradition

Galatina, located less than 30 kilometers from Lecce, is a small jewel that holds a rich history and an artistic heritage of great value. The Basilica of Santa Caterina d’Alessandria is one of the main points of reference: famous for its Renaissance frescoes, it is one of the most beautiful examples of Gothic art in Puglia. Walking through the streets of the center, you can also admire the historic buildings, churches and squares that still retain the atmosphere of the past.

A curiosity? According to reliable sources, the “pasticciotto leccese” was actually invented in Galatina, by the hands of the pastry chef Andrea Ascalone. Today you can taste it in the Pasticceria Ascalone, from which it takes its name. In this article you can find the original recipe.

4. Torre dell’Orso

If you are looking for one of the most beautiful beaches in Salento, you can’t miss Torre dell’Orso. About 20 km from Lecce, this town is famous for its long stretch of golden sand and crystal clear waters. The landscape is dominated by the imposing rock formations of the “Due Sorelle“, which emerge from the sea, creating a unique setting. In addition to its natural beauty, the area is also full of tourist facilities and restaurants, ideal for a relaxing day.

5. Nardò

Located a few kilometers away from Lecce, the town of Nardò will take you back in time. Its historic center is a true treasure chest, with baroque churches, noble palaces and enchanting squares. Don’t miss a visit to the splendid Cathedral of Nardò and the nearby Piazza Salandra, the beating heart of the city. A few steps from the center is also the Porto Selvaggio Nature Reserve, a perfect place for walks immersed in nature.

To reach these splendid locations it is essential to have a means of transport. If you do not have a car, a convenient and practical solution is to rely on a private driver. This service will allow you to explore Salento in complete tranquility, without worrying about parking or traffic. With an expert driver, you can enjoy the landscape and the beauties of the region without stress, arriving comfortably and on time at each destination.

If you are planning a trip to Salento and have chosen Lecce as your “base” for your trip, you have several options for reaching this destination. Whether you arrive by train, bus, plane or car, in this article we will explore the various ways to get to Lecce, with practical details for each means of transport.

1. How to get to Lecce by plane

The fastest way to get to Lecce from abroad or from other Italian cities is by plane. Lecce does not have its own airport, but the city is well connected to the main airports in Puglia:

• Brindisi Airport (Salento Airport): This is the closest airport to Lecce, located about 39 km from the city. From Brindisi Airport, you can take a shuttle bus to the city center and from there you can reach Lecce by regional train (about 40 minutes) or by direct bus. Taxi and car rental services are also available directly from the airport.

• Bari Airport (Karol Wojtyła): If you are flying to or from international destinations, Bari Airport can be a good option. It is about 150 km from Lecce, reachable by train (about 2 hours), by bus or by renting a car. Bari Airport has a tram line that connects it to Bari central station: from here you can then take a train or bus to Lecce.

2. How to get to Lecce by train

Lecce is well served by the Italian railway network (Trenitalia), with frequent and comfortable connections both from the main towns in Puglia, and from large cities such as Rome, Naples and Milan. The Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, Frecciabianca and Intercity lines are quite frequent and the connections offer “direct” solutions without having to make changes.

3. How to get to Lecce by car

If you prefer to drive and enjoy the landscape, Lecce is easily accessible by car thanks to its strategic position in the southern part of Puglia. The main highways and roads leading to Lecce are:

• A14 (Autostrada Adriatica): Connected to the A1, the A14 highway allows you to reach Lecce via Bari. From Bari, follow the SS16 south to Lecce.

• SS613: A state road that connects Brindisi to Lecce directly and quickly. If you are coming from Brindisi, the SS613 will take you to the city in about 30-40 minutes.

• From other Italian cities: From Rome or Naples, the A1 highway and the SS16 will easily take you to Lecce.

4. How to get to Lecce by bus

Bus lines are another travel option, the “slowest” but also the cheapest. The city is well connected, through multiple lines, with the entire national territory. Here are some examples:

• Bus from Bari/Brindisi: Several bus companies, such as Flixbus, MarinoBus, Miccolisbus, Marozzi, offer direct connections between Bari/Brindisi and Lecce. The journey lasts approximately 1/1:45 h.
• Bus from other Italian cities: Flixbus, Marinobus, Itabus and other transport companies offer connections from Rome, Milan, Naples and other Italian cities to Lecce. The journey can last from 5 to 10 hours depending on your destination.

How to get around Lecce city

Once you arrive in the city, getting around will be very simple. The city is easily walkable thanks to its compact size. The historic center, in particular, is a labyrinth of narrow streets that will allow you to discover the main monuments, squares and churches. For longer journeys, you basically have 4 solutions:

1. Local buses: Lecce is served by a network of urban buses that cover different areas of the city. STP (Società Trasporti Pubblici) manages most of the lines, which allow you to easily move around both the historic center and the peripheral areas. Tickets can be purchased at authorized retailers, or on board the bus, but it is advisable to consult the timetables and lines available based on your destination.
2. Taxi: Lecce also offers a taxi service, easily booked by phone or at one of the main stopping points, such as the train station. Taxis are comfortable and fast, ideal for quick trips or for those who want a more private transport. There are also some fixed rates for the main destinations, such as Brindisi airport.
3. Private driver: For those looking for a more exclusive service, a private driver is the perfect choice. This option is particularly advantageous for those who want a personalized service, which can also include guided tours in the surroundings of Lecce, such as the beautiful seaside resorts of Salento or the villages around Lecce. This way you can enjoy a driver at your disposal, without having to comply with public transport timetables.

Overall, Lecce is well connected and while the historic center is easily walkable, these transportation options make traveling further afield convenient.

Lecce, known as the “Florence of the South“, is one of the most fascinating destinations for those visiting Salento. With its thousand-year history, its fascinating mix of baroque art and centuries-old traditions, the historic center of the city offers a unique experience that captures the heart of every tourist. If you are traveling in Salento, you cannot miss a walk through the streets of its historic center, where every corner tells a story of beauty and culture.

When you enter the center of Lecce, through one of its “Gates” (Porta San Biagio, Porta Rudiae and Porta Napoli), it is impossible not to be fascinated by the unique style of its buildings. In this article we recommend some of the unmissable stops to include in your itinerary in Lecce.

1. Piazza del Duomo
   The beating heart of the city, Piazza del Duomo is one of the most evocative places in Lecce. Here you can admire the majestic Duomo of Lecce, a cathedral that enchants with its baroque facade and interior rich in artistic details. Don’t forget to climb the bell tower for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city.
2. Roman Amphitheater. In the heart of Lecce, a few steps from the famous Piazza Sant’Oronzo, is the Roman Amphitheater, which dates back to the 2nd century AD. This ancient theater, which could accommodate up to 25,000 spectators, is still an evocative place to imagine the gladiators and the shows of antiquity.
3. Basilica of Santa Croce. Another masterpiece of Lecce’s Baroque style is the Basilica of Santa Croce, with its imposing façade that seems to tell religious and mythological stories through an incredible variety of sculpted motifs. The interior of the basilica is equally fascinating, with its imposing altar and works of art that decorate every corner.

In addition to the monuments, Lecce is a city to be experienced through its streets. The streets of the historic center, such as Via Giuseppe Mazzini and Via del Duomo, are perfect for strolling, shopping in the artisan shops and stopping to enjoy a coffee in the typical bars. Don’t forget to taste thetypical dishes of Salento, such as the puccia salentina, the rustico leccese, the pasticciotto, and much more.

If you are planning a visit to Lecce, one of the unmissable stops is undoubtedly the Basilica of Santa Croce, the first Baroque masterpiece of the city. The Basilica is located in via Umberto I, right in the historic center and next to another important structure: the former Celestine convent or Palazzo dei Celestini.

Some historical notes

The construction of this church began in 1353, but the works were interrupted almost immediately due to the death of the first client, and then resumed only in 1549 at the request of the Celestine fathers.

The architects who took care of its rebirth were Cesare Penna, Gabriele Riccardi and Giuseppe Zimbalo, that is, the most important in the area with the help of master stonecutters and carvers from the Lecce area. It was finally completed in 1689, bringing with it passages from various eras such as the Renaissance and the Baroque.

A masterpiece of Lecce Baroque

The element that makes the Basilica of Santa Croce truly special is the use of Lecce stone, a local limestone that, with its softness, allows for the creation of incredibly detailed and scenographic decorations.

Just think of the façade, where there are caryatids, a series of thirteen embracing cherubs, two statues representing Charity and Faith and a very valuable baroque rose window.

But it is inside that the Basilica reveals all its splendor. The ceiling is richly decorated, and every corner tells a story, while the side chapels are adorned with stucco and frescoes that narrate biblical episodes. There is no shortage of works of the highest value such as the pulpit in Lecce stone, which fascinates with its elegance and fine details. The apse contains several scenes, including the Adoration of the Shepherds, the Annunciation of Mary, Mary and Elizabeth and an episode of the escape of the Jews from Egypt.

Basilica of Santa Croce’s role today

The Basilica of Santa Croce is not only a place of worship, but also an extraordinary testimony to the artistic tradition of Lecce. By visiting it, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in history and discover one of the most representative places of the Apulian Baroque.

Don’t forget to include it in your itinerary in Lecce: after walking through its historic squares and alleys, a visit to the Basilica will give you a complete experience, combining architectural beauty, spirituality and history in one place.

In the heart of the baroque city of Lecce, one of the most fascinating and significant monuments, which tells thousands of years of history, is the Roman Amphitheater. This extraordinary building, testimony to the glorious past of the ancient city of Lupiae, is one of the main tourist attractions of Lecce and an unmissable stop for those who want to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Puglia.

The role of the Amphitheater in the past: historical notes

The Roman Amphitheater of Lecce dates back to the 2nd century AD and was built in a period of great development for the Roman Empire, when the city of Lupiae (the ancient name of Lecce) enjoyed great prestige and prosperity. With an estimated capacity of between 20,000 and 25,000 spectators, the amphitheater was intended to host public events, such as gladiator fights, simulated battles and public games that entertained the population of the time. Some historical sources say that battles were organized to celebrate particular events, such as the visit of emperors or prominent figures.

Unfortunately, as often happens with many ancient structures, the amphitheater has suffered serious damage over the centuries, partly due to looting during the Middle Ages and the construction of buildings above it. As usual, during the Middle Ages the materials of the amphitheater were exploited for other purposes, such as the construction of the city fortifications. Curiously, some decorative apparatus of the structure are today found in nearby Otranto, decorating the crypt of the Romanesque Cathedral.

Only in the 20th century did its ruins emerge, thanks to archaeological excavations that gave the city a fundamental piece of its past. The part visible today represents about a third of the original size of the structure, built in the Augustan age and remodeled about a century later under Hadrian.

The role of the Amphitheater today

Today, the Roman Amphitheater is one of the main tourist attractions in Lecce, which retains its aura of mystery and beauty intact. One of the most fascinating features of the Roman Amphitheater of Lecce is its location: it is located in the heart of the historic center, between the main streets of the city, making it easily accessible to all visitors. When walking along the crowded streets of the center, you almost have the impression that the city suddenly “opens” onto this vast and silent space, which offers a unique starting point for reflecting on the Lecce of two thousand years ago. Every year, thousands of tourists visit the city to admire this historic monument that tells not only the greatness of Ancient Rome, but also the continuous dialogue between the past and the present.

During the summer, the amphitheater hosts cultural events, shows and concerts, which find in this extraordinary setting a stage unique in the world. During the Christmas holidays, it is customary to set up the nativity scene right inside the Amphitheater.