Puglia’s Baroque City
Lecce, Puglia is a beautiful city with unmistakable style. It’s known for its Baroque architecture, Roman monuments and ancient amphitheater. The historic center is enchanting. You will find beautiful seventeenth-century buildings adorned with ornate details. Not to mention, there are architectural surprises around every corner. Adding to its beauty is that everything was built with local ‘Lecce Limestone’ which bathes the town in glowing shades of cream and golden depending how the sun hits it. Lecce Italy, nicknamed ‘The Florence of the South’, is definitely worth a visit.
Moreover, there are many main attractions to see in the historic center of Lecce Italy. The highlight of these being the Roman Amphitheater located in the main piazza of old town. Remarkably, this spectacular theater was buried under the earth for centuries while structures were built above. Its hidden existence was discovered in 1901, when it was unearthed while excavation began to build a bank. The amphitheater is surrounded by other ancient ruins including a Baroque triumphal arch, all seen in one sweeping view!
Things to do in Lecce
Small enough to walk everywhere and with so many unique things to see, here are some things to see in Lecce.
* Visit the Cattedrale (cathedral) of Santa Maria Assunta. It is in the Piazza del Duomo, one of the most beautiful squares in Lecce. Perfect for people watching and enjoying the ambiance.
* Visit the Basilica di Santa Croce. It is a superb example of the most intricate Baroque works in Italy. Moreover, it possesses hidden stories and words on its facade.
* Visit Progetto, which is a contemporary art gallery. By appointment only
Best Restaurants in Lecce Puglia
In Lecce Puglia the atmosphere is lively and bustling. Day and night, the city will delight you with its elegant alleyways and delicious restaurants.
In fact, an excellent restaurant we love is Doppio Zero 🏆. The food is delicious and the service is friendly and excellent.
In like manner, listed below are more delicious Lecce establishments recommended by two local residents: my daughter and her boyfriend! Take the time to enjoy these restaurants in Lecce.
🍝 Restaurants – Trattoria dall’Antiquario, I Latini and Zio Pesce.
🍷 Aperitivo and Cocktails – Quanto Basta, Barroccio (casual), Caffe Cittadino (go upstairs for a nice view of Piazza Oronzo) and Miro Coffee Bistrot.
🍦 Gelato – Martinuccio or Natale
Hotels in Lecce Italy
We stayed at a terrific place in Lecce named Alvino Suite & Breakfast. It offered a sweeping view from the Amphitheater to the Piazza Sant’Oronzo. Our room was huge and beautiful with a balcony to view it all. Furthermore, directly downstairs is a delicious Pasticceria & Gelateria. You should try a Pasticciotto Leccese – a famous custard cream-filled pastry of southern Puglia.
Another place we love is Airbnb La Casa del Mare(k). It is an entire one bedroom condo with modern, chic decor. In addition, it is spotlessly clean and includes everything you will need for your stay – including a parking spot. La Casa del Mare is located directly outside of old town, only steps away! Furthermore, it is a guest favorite and one of the most loved B&B’s in the area. I highly recommend!
Looking for popular meeting places? Head to Piazzetta Santa Chiara and Porta San Biagio – especially in the evening since there are plenty of restaurants, pubs and clubs.
Lecce, Puglia is definitely worth a visit as it is a beautiful city. Not to mention, there are many beautiful Salento beaches you can visit by car from here.
Other must see charming Puglian towns are Ostuni, Locorotondo and Polignano a Mare! It is only a 1 hour drive to Ostuni and 1.5 hour drive to either Locorotondo or Polignano.
Lecce Picture Gallery
