Italy

16 Best Things to Do in Lecce, Puglia

With its enchanting old town filled with baroque churches, grand palaces, and historic squares, Lecce is often called the “Florence of the South.” Its church facades are beautifully adorned with angels, flowers, and mythological figures, while ancient piazzas overlook the remnants of Roman civilization. The city’s architecture, crafted from pietra leccese—a distinctive pale limestone—radiates a warm, golden glow as the sun sets, giving Lecce an almost magical charm.

Nestled in a region known for its postcard-perfect villages and breathtaking coastlines, Lecce is a dream for lovers of art, culture, and history. But it’s not just for history buffs—it’s also a haven for those who love good food and a laid-back lifestyle. The city is brimming with atmospheric restaurants, inviting terraces, and cozy bars where you can savor the best of Southern Italian cuisine while soaking in the vibrant surroundings.

This blog takes you on a journey through Lecce’s most remarkable sights, from its magnificent churches to its fascinating museums. Explore the city’s rich history, find out the best time to visit, and discover the must-see highlights and hidden gems that make Lecce truly unforgettable.

Brief History of Lecce

Lecce’s history is as rich and layered as its architecture, stretching back to ancient times. The city’s roots lie with the Messapians, a mysterious people who settled in the region as early as the 7th century BCE. In the 3rd century BCE, the Romans arrived, renaming the city Lupiae and ushering in an era of prosperity. They built roads, bathhouses, and temples, and at the heart of the city, a grand amphitheater became the stage for public gatherings, gladiator battles, and theatrical performances that brought the community together.

With the fall of the Roman Empire, Lecce entered a period of upheaval, passing through the hands of various rulers. The Byzantines took control first, fortifying the city against seaborne invasions. Then came the Lombards, followed by the Normans, who shaped Lecce into an important religious center. It was during this time that the city saw the rise of its first grand churches and monasteries, laying the foundation for the architectural splendor that still defines Lecce today.

Lecce’s golden age arrived in the 16th and 17th centuries, when it became part of the Spanish Empire. Under Emperor Charles V, the city was further fortified with new defensive walls, and its castle was expanded to protect against Ottoman and pirate attacks. But it was the flourishing of art and architecture that truly transformed Lecce. The Baroque style took on a character of its own here, as architects and artisans worked with pietra leccese—a soft, golden limestone—to sculpt elaborate details into churches, palaces, and fountains. This artistic explosion turned Lecce into a masterpiece of Baroque design, giving the city its unmistakable charm.

During this era, craftsmanship also flourished, particularly the art of papier-mâché. As an affordable alternative to marble, it became a popular medium for religious sculptures, allowing artists to create expressive, lifelike figures. Even today, Lecce remains famous for this tradition, with artisan workshops throughout the city keeping the centuries-old craft alive.

By the 18th century, Lecce’s political and military influence began to fade, but its breathtaking Baroque heritage remained untouched. Today, the city feels like an open-air museum, where every street corner reveals another architectural gem. With its fascinating history, artistic beauty, and timeless atmosphere, Lecce stands as one of the most captivating destinations in Puglia.

What is Lecce Known for?

Lecce is a city of elegance and history, renowned for its opulent Baroque architecture, ancient Roman ruins, traditional papier-mâché craftsmanship, and exquisite cuisine. Often described as an open-air museum, it rightfully earns its nickname, the “Florence of the South.”

Baroque architecture is the soul of Lecce. In the 16th and 17th centuries, the city flourished, transforming into a masterpiece of artistic expression. Churches and palaces sprang up in rapid succession, each more elaborate than the last, adorned with intricate carvings, mythical figures, and swirling floral motifs. The Basilica di Santa Croce stands as the pinnacle of this flamboyant style—its façade is a breathtaking display of sculptural detail, an artwork in stone that invites endless admiration. Nearby, the Duomo and the grand buildings of Piazza del Duomo offer further proof of the city’s remarkable architectural legacy.

The secret behind Lecce’s architectural splendor lies in pietra leccese, a soft limestone unique to this region. Easily sculpted yet incredibly durable, this stone became the canvas for Lecce’s master craftsmen, who carved it into elaborate facades and decorative masterpieces. Its warm, honey-colored tones absorb and reflect the sunlight, bathing the city in a golden glow—especially in the soft light of early morning and late afternoon, when Lecce seems to shimmer with a timeless beauty.

Yet Lecce’s history stretches back even further. Echoes of its Roman past still resonate through the city’s streets. At the heart of Piazza Sant’Oronzo, the impressive Roman amphitheater stands as a reminder of Lecce’s importance in antiquity. Once, thousands of spectators filled its stone tiers, captivated by gladiator battles and theatrical performances. Just a short walk away, the Roman theater, once a stage for dramatic plays and musical performances, offers another glimpse into the city’s ancient life. These extraordinary ruins lay hidden beneath Lecce for centuries, only rediscovered in the 20th century.

One of Lecce’s most enchanting traditions is its papier-mâché craftsmanship, an art form that has flourished in the city since the 17th century. With marble both scarce and costly, local artisans developed an ingenious technique to create lightweight yet intricately detailed sculptures from papier-mâché. These remarkable works, often depicting saints and religious scenes, can still be found in many of Lecce’s historic churches. Even today, small workshops scattered throughout the city keep this delicate craft alive, allowing visitors to witness firsthand the time-honored process of molding, painting, and bringing these stunning creations to life.

Lecce’s culinary heritage is just as irresistible as its architecture. The city is a paradise for food lovers, offering mouthwatering street food like rustico, a warm, flaky pastry filled with gooey mozzarella and creamy béchamel sauce, and the beloved pasticciotto, a golden-crusted pastry bursting with rich custard. For the finest pasticciotto in town, locals and visitors alike flock to Pasticceria Natale, a legendary pastry shop that has perfected the recipe. Lecce’s cuisine embraces the beauty of simplicity, relying on fresh, high-quality ingredients—think fragrant olive oil, sun-kissed vegetables, and handmade orecchiette pasta, shaped into tiny ear-like rounds. And no meal is complete without a glass of Negroamaro or Primitivo, the region’s signature full-bodied red wines, known for their deep flavors and velvety finish.

Yet beyond its art, history, and food, what truly defines Lecce is its effortless Mediterranean charm. The city has a unique rhythm—lively yet unhurried, sophisticated yet down-to-earth. In the sun-drenched piazzas, locals linger over espresso at charming cafés, children chase each other around fountains, and visitors lose themselves in a maze of cobblestone streets, stumbling upon hidden Baroque masterpieces at every turn. It’s a place where time seems to slow down, where an afternoon is best spent sipping a glass of wine or an Aperol Spritz, basking in the golden glow of the setting sun, and simply savoring the magic of southern Italy. That is Lecce at its finest.

Where is Lecce in Italy?

Lecce sits in the heart of Puglia, the sun-drenched region that forms the “heel” of Italy’s boot. Nestled on the Salento Peninsula, the city is surrounded by the sea on three sides, offering a stunning blend of coastal beauty, rich history, and laid-back Mediterranean charm.

Lecce lies about 150 kilometers south of Bari, Puglia’s capital, and just 40 kilometers from Brindisi, home to the nearest airport. From Brindisi, the 30-minute drive to Lecce winds through a landscape of endless olive groves, rolling vineyards, and historic masseria—traditional fortified farmhouses, many of which have been transformed into elegant countryside retreats.

Venture 40 kilometers southeast of Lecce, and you’ll reach Otranto, a picturesque coastal town steeped in history. Enclosed by towering medieval walls, Otranto is home to a breathtaking cathedral, famous for its intricate 12th-century mosaic floor, as well as a stunning coastline that invites long seaside strolls. On the opposite side of the peninsula, about 45 kilometers west, lies Gallipoli, a charming fishing town where the historic center sits on a small island, connected to the mainland by a bridge. With its labyrinth of narrow streets, a waterfront castle, and a bustling port where fishermen haul in the catch of the day, Gallipoli is a place where history and coastal life intertwine seamlessly. Travelers looking to explore further can take a trip to Ostuni, the dazzling “White City,” or Alberobello, famous for its fairy-tale-like trulli houses—unique conical-roofed stone dwellings found nowhere else in the world.

For nature lovers, Porto Selvaggio, located along the Ionian coast, is a spectacular destination for a day trip. This protected nature reserve is a haven of lush pine forests, rugged cliffs, and hidden coves, perfect for hiking, swimming, or simply taking in the unspoiled beauty of the coastline. Closer to Lecce, just 20 kilometers away, lies the Grotta della Poesia, a breathtaking natural lagoon. According to legend, a princess once visited this magical spot to recite poetry, giving the cave its evocative name. Today, it’s a favorite among swimmers and cliff divers, who leap into its crystalline waters, surrounded by limestone cliffs.

Best Time to Visit Lecce

The best time to visit Lecce is during spring or autumn, when the city basks in warm sunshine without the intense summer heat. In April, May, September, and October, temperatures settle between 20 and 25°C (68–77°F)—perfect for sipping an espresso at an outdoor café or strolling through Lecce’s Baroque streets without breaking a sweat. These months also bring a more relaxed atmosphere, as the city is far less crowded than during the peak of summer.

Summer transforms Lecce into a lively, sun-soaked destination, drawing Italians and international visitors alike. From June to August, temperatures frequently soar above 30°C (86°F), filling the city with a buzzing energy as festivals, bustling piazzas, and open-air dining take center stage. It’s also the ideal season to pair cultural exploration with beachside relaxation, as stunning coastal spots like Torre dell’Orso and Porto Cesareo are just a 30-minute drive away. However, summer is peak season, so expect larger crowds and higher demand for accommodations. If you’re visiting in late August, don’t miss La Festa di Sant’Oronzo, Lecce’s grand celebration featuring fireworks, lively processions, and traditional music.

Winter unveils a quieter, more intimate side of Lecce. From November to March, the city slows down, yet temperatures rarely dip below 10°C (50°F), making it a pleasant off-season retreat. December, in particular, brings a magical charm, with twinkling Christmas lights, festive markets, and beautifully crafted nativity scenes in the city’s churches, turning Lecce into an enchanting winter getaway.

Top 7 Churches in Lecce

#1 Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta (Duomo di Lecce)

The Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, better known as the Duomo di Lecce, is the undisputed masterpiece of the city’s historic center. Originally built in 1144, it underwent a dramatic transformation between 1659 and 1670 under the direction of renowned architect Giuseppe Zimbalo, who gave it the sumptuous Baroque style that defines it today.

One of the cathedral’s most distinctive features is its two entrances. The main entrance, though elegant, is relatively understated. In contrast, the side façade, which faces the square, is an awe-inspiring display of Baroque artistry, adorned with elaborate carvings, grand statues, and intricate detailing. Step inside, and the spectacle continues. The interior is a feast for the eyes, with marble-clad chapels, gilded altars, and captivating frescoes. At its heart is the high altar, dedicated to the Assumption of Mary, a dazzling centerpiece rich in ornamentation.

Beside the cathedral stands the octagonal bell tower, completed in 1682. Rising 70 meters (230 feet) into the sky, it is one of Lecce’s most iconic landmarks. Climbing to the top rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views over the city and beyond.

The cathedral’s interior can only be visited with a combination ticket, which also grants access to three other magnificent Baroque churches in Lecce.

#2 Basilica of Santa Croce

The Basilica di Santa Croce is undoubtedly Lecce’s most iconic landmark. Construction began in 1549 and spanned nearly 150 years, with renowned architects like Gabriele Riccardi and Cesare Penna contributing to this breathtaking masterpiece of Baroque architecture.

Its façade is an extraordinary display of artistic craftsmanship, covered in intricate carvings that bring the stone to life. Everywhere you look, you’ll find an abundance of detail—mythological creatures, cherubs, delicate floral patterns, and clusters of fruit, all sculpted with remarkable precision. At the heart of the façade, the stunning rose window immediately draws the eye. Often called the “jewel of the basilica,” it adds an extra touch of elegance and grandeur to this already spectacular exterior.

Step inside, and you’ll find an interior just as impressive, with gleaming marble, elaborate carvings, and golden accents that reflect the grandeur of the era. Yet, as breathtaking as the interior may be, it is the magnificent façade that truly defines the basilica’s character, making it one of Lecce’s most photographed sites. Access to the basilica is included in a combination ticket, which also grants entry to several other historic churches in Lecce.

#3 Church of Santa Chiara

The Chiesa di Santa Chiara holds a hidden surprise that only reveals itself once you step inside. Originally built in the 15th century, the church was given a striking Baroque makeover in 1687 under the guidance of architect Giuseppe Cino. From the outside, its curved façade and ornate decorations immediately draw attention, while the large window above the entrance lends the church a distinctive charm.

Inside, Santa Chiara defies expectations with its unusual octagonal floor plan—a rare and fascinating design for a church of its era. The six side altars are richly decorated with marble statues and paintings, enhancing the church’s artistic grandeur. But what truly makes Santa Chiara extraordinary is its papier-mâché ceiling. Unique to Lecce, this technique allowed craftsmen to create an intricate yet lightweight structure that was both cost-effective and visually stunning. The detailed sculptures and ornaments are so masterfully crafted that they could easily be mistaken for marble, adding an unexpected touch of elegance to this remarkable church.

Chiesa di Santa Chiara Lecce

#4 Church of San Matteo

The Chiesa di San Matteo is a true hidden gem, completed in 1667 and admired for its bold and unconventional design. Its façade is a striking play of contrasts, where alternating convex and concave forms create a dynamic sense of movement. Framing the entrance are two imposing columns—though curiously, one remains unfinished. According to local legend, this was no accident but the work of the devil himself, who is said to have disrupted the construction.

Stepping inside, the church continues to impress. Its rare elliptical layout sets it apart from more traditional designs, while intricately adorned side altars enhance its distinctive character. Rich Baroque embellishments and masterful paintings by renowned artists turn the interior into a visual spectacle. The true centerpiece, however, is the magnificent high altar, where exquisite sculptures and gilded details draw the eye, creating an unforgettable display of grandeur and craftsmanship.

#5 Church of the Gesù

The Chiesa del Gesù, also known as Chiesa del Gesù Nuovo, is located just a short walk from the famous Basilica di Santa Croce. Built in the 16th century by the Jesuit Order, the church’s exterior is surprisingly unassuming. However, stepping inside is like entering an entirely different world—one filled with breathtaking artistry and opulent decoration.

The ceilings are a masterpiece of intricate frescoes and elaborate stucco work, drawing the eye upward in admiration. The altars shimmer with inlays of marble and semi-precious stones, each detail meticulously crafted to enhance the church’s grandeur. Perhaps the most captivating feature is the high altar, framed by exquisitely carved columns that showcase extraordinary craftsmanship. During our visit, part of it was hidden behind scaffolding due to restoration work on the dome, yet even partially obscured, its magnificence was undeniable.

#6 Church of Sant’Irene

The Chiesa di Sant’Irene is one of Lecce’s largest and most impressive churches, built in 1591 to honor Saint Irene, the city’s former patron saint. Designed by Neapolitan architect Francesco Grimaldi, who left his mark on religious architecture across Italy, the church is a stunning example of Lecce’s Baroque grandeur.

The façade is divided into two levels, with the most striking feature being the statue of Saint Irene, placed above the entrance in 1717. As you step inside, the church reveals a captivating contrast between ornate decorations and simplicity—its gleaming white marble and intricate embellishments stand in stark opposition to the unadorned wooden ceiling.

The high altar is a true masterpiece, lavishly adorned with marble reliefs and paintings, including a striking depiction of Archangel Michael. This artwork is a faithful reproduction of the renowned original by Guido Reni, preserving its dramatic intensity. Another highlight is the altar of Saint Orontius, Lecce’s current patron saint. It was designed by Francesco Antonio Zimbalo, one of the city’s most celebrated architects.

#7 Church of San Giovanni Battista

The Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, also known as the Chiesa del Rosario, is a magnificent Baroque church located near Porta Rudiae, at the far end of Via Giuseppe Libertini, one of the main arteries of Lecce’s historic center. Built between 1691 and 1728, it is widely regarded as one of the city’s finest architectural gems. The church was designed by Giuseppe Zimbalo, a master architect whose work shaped much of Lecce’s skyline. Commissioned by the Dominican Order, this stunning structure stands as a testament to the grandeur of the city’s Baroque heritage.

The church’s façade is a masterpiece of intricate craftsmanship, richly decorated with elaborate reliefs, delicate floral motifs, and statues that seem to reach skyward, drawing the eye ever upward. This sense of movement and grandeur continues inside, where the high altar shimmers with exquisite marble inlays and gilded embellishments. Adding to the church’s artistic splendor, a series of paintings and sculptures vividly illustrate key moments from the life of John the Baptist.

One of the most intriguing features is the contrast between the church’s lavish ornamentation and its unadorned wooden ceiling. This unexpected juxtaposition creates a striking visual effect, allowing the richness of the decorations to stand out even more.

Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista Lecce

The Most Beautiful Sights in Lecce

#8 The Old Town of Lecce

A stroll through Lecce’s historic center feels like stepping into a scene from a bygone era. Its narrow, cobbled streets weave through a stunning backdrop of baroque churches, picturesque piazzas, and grand palaces, all crafted from the city’s iconic leccese stone. This locally quarried limestone is not only highly workable for intricate carvings but also catches the sunlight in a way that bathes the buildings in a soft, golden glow.

The heart of Lecce is a living museum of history and architecture. As you wander, you’ll come across remarkable landmarks such as the Basilica di Santa Croce, with its elaborate façade, and the vibrant Piazza Sant’Oronzo, where past and present blend seamlessly. Tucked between these grand sights are small artisan workshops, where craftsmen keep Lecce’s centuries-old papier-mâché tradition alive. Dating back to the 17th century, this delicate art form has long been used to create religious statues and intricate decorations, adding yet another layer to the city’s cultural charm.

But Lecce is more than just a feast for the eyes—it’s also a paradise for food lovers. In the bustling piazzas and quiet alleyways, cozy cafés and inviting trattorias tempt visitors with local specialties. Indulge in a warm pasticciotto, a flaky pastry filled with silky custard, or bite into a rustico, a golden puff pastry oozing with mozzarella and tomato. One evening, as we wandered through the lively streets with our little ones just before bedtime, we couldn’t help but glance wistfully into the buzzing bars and candlelit restaurants. It was a sweet reminder of past travels without kids, of lingering over long, leisurely dinners—soaking up the city’s enchanting atmosphere late into the night.

#9 Roman Amphitheatre

Lecce’s Roman amphitheater is an unexpected treasure, hidden in plain sight at the heart of the city, right on Piazza Sant’Oronzo. Built in the 1st century AD, this grand structure once echoed with the cheers of up to 15,000 spectators. For centuries, it lay buried beneath the city streets, lost to time, until archaeologists unearthed the first sections during excavations in 1901. Even today, a large portion remains concealed beneath modern buildings, yet the visible ruins offer a powerful glimpse into its former magnificence.

This arena was once a stage for dramatic gladiator battles and thrilling wild animal shows, spectacles designed to entertain and awe. Some of the surviving balustrades still bear intricate reliefs of hunting scenes, bringing to life the fierce encounters that once unfolded here. The amphitheater’s seating, partially carved into the natural rock, stands as a testament to the ingenuity of Roman engineering.

One of the best things about this ancient site is that you can admire it for free from the square, making it an effortless yet unforgettable stop while exploring Lecce. When we visited in December, the amphitheater took on a festive charm, with a grand nativity scene set up inside. A raised platform along the edge allowed for the perfect view.

Lecce Puglia

#10 Piazza Sant’Oronzo

Piazza Sant’Oronzo is the lively heart of Lecce, a bustling square named after the city’s patron saint, Saint Orontius. Dominating the center of the piazza is a grand column crowned by a statue of the saint. This column once marked the end of the famous Via Appia, the ancient Roman road that connected Rome to Brindisi.

The square offers a breathtaking view of the nearby Roman amphitheater, creating a striking juxtaposition between the ruins of the past and the vibrant life of the present. Other notable landmarks include the Palazzo del Seggio, a medieval palace often called “the Sedile,” and the eye-catching mosaic pavement featuring a wolf—the symbol of Lecce.

Surrounding the piazza are numerous cafés and restaurants, perfect spots to enjoy a cup of espresso or sample local delicacies while soaking in the bustling atmosphere. The square is also a hub for festivals and markets year-round, making it a lively gathering place, especially in the summer. During our December visit, the piazza was beautifully transformed, with a grand Christmas tree and a festive Christmas market, filling the air with holiday cheer and warmth.

#11 Faggiano Museum

The Museo Faggiano is one of the most intriguing and unexpected gems in Lecce. What started as a simple sewer repair in 2001 soon turned into a remarkable archaeological discovery, uncovering more than two thousand years of history hidden beneath the city. Owner Luciano Faggiano had expected only a small renovation, but instead, he found himself unearthing underground chambers, water reservoirs, and secret passages. It turned out his home was built on centuries of history, from the time of the Messapians to the Middle Ages.

Archaeologists later revealed that the building had once been a monastery, complete with grain storage rooms and a bakery. Beneath the floors, they discovered ancient graves, mosaics, and Roman walls. One of the most captivating finds is an underground passageway, thought to have been used by monks to move discreetly through the building. The water wells and storage systems also provide a fascinating insight into how the residents of the past ingeniously made use of their space.

The museum takes visitors on an immersive journey through multiple layers of history, with narrow stairways and corridors leading you past intricately carved stone floors and ancient brick walls.

#12 Palazzo dei Celestini

The Palazzo dei Celestini is a breathtaking Baroque palace located in the heart of Lecce. Originally built in the 15th century as a monastery for the Celestine Order, the building was transformed into its present form in the 17th century, thanks to the work of architects Giuseppe Zimbalo and Cesare Penna. Today, it serves as the seat of the provincial government.

The palace’s grand façade along Via Umberto I captures attention with its perfect symmetry and beautifully detailed windows. Elegant marble accents and soaring columns give the building a royal, timeless elegance. Inside, a spacious courtyard, bordered by graceful arches, offers a tranquil place for visitors to wander freely and take in the surroundings.

The Palazzo dei Celestini is situated right next to the Basilica di Santa Croce. During our visit, much of the façade was concealed behind scaffolding. Even with the scaffolding in place, we could still appreciate the splendor of the palace’s architecture.

Tip: Just across from the Palazzo dei Celestini, we stumbled upon another beautiful gem—Palazzo Loffredo Adorno. This charming palace also features a lovely courtyard, open to the public.

#13 Roman Theatre

The Roman theater of Lecce is a hidden gem, nestled among the narrow, winding streets of the historic center. Though it dates back to the 1st or 2nd century AD, this ancient theater remained lost to history until its discovery in 1929 during construction work. Since then, it has been partially excavated, and archaeologists believe it once seated up to 4,000 spectators for dramatic performances, music concerts, and grand ceremonies.

What makes this theater particularly fascinating is how it’s tucked away, almost concealed within the modern cityscape. Its location makes it virtually invisible from the street, and visitors must purchase a ticket to step inside.

#14 Piazza del Duomo (Cathedral Square)

Piazza del Duomo is undoubtedly one of Lecce’s most striking squares. Unlike many other Italian piazzas, it is almost entirely surrounded by buildings, giving it the intimate feel of a royal courtyard. As soon as you step onto the square, you’re immediately enveloped by the awe-inspiring beauty of Baroque architecture.

The Lecce Cathedral stands proudly at the heart of the square, its grand façade and delicate details commanding attention. The octagonal bell tower, completed in 1682, soars above the city, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Adjacent to the cathedral, you’ll find the episcopal palace and the seminary, both showcasing the elegant Baroque style that defines the area.

By day, the square exudes a serene, almost regal atmosphere, while by night, it takes on a magical quality, bathed in soft light and radiating a unique charm. During religious festivals, Piazza del Duomo becomes the vibrant backdrop for processions and celebrations. When we visited in December, the square was adorned with a dazzling Christmas tree and spectacular light projections on the buildings.

#15 Old City Gates

Lecce was once encircled by protective city walls, with three grand gates serving as the city’s entrances. Of these, Porta Napoli stands out as the largest and most impressive. Built in 1548 to honor Emperor Charles V, this triumphal arch was designed as a powerful symbol of authority and defense, and it continues to mark the gateway to the historic center of Lecce.

Porta Rudiae, the oldest of the three, was reconstructed in 1703 after being destroyed. Adorned with statues of saints, its design evokes the grandeur of a Roman temple, adding to its timeless appeal. Meanwhile, Porta San Biagio, dedicated to Saint Blaise, was built in the sixteenth century and captivates visitors with its graceful and intricate decorations.

#16 Castle Charles V

Castello Carlo V is a formidable fortress, first constructed in the 12th century and later expanded by Emperor Charles V in the 16th century. Its thick stone walls and square towers were built to safeguard Lecce from pirate attacks and Ottoman invasions, standing as a testament to the city’s strategic importance.

Today, the castle serves as a cultural hub, with parts of the building hosting art exhibitions and events. Visitors can immerse themselves in both the castle’s rich history and its modern-day artistic offerings. With a modest entrance fee, the castle is an easy stop for those interested in exploring both the past and present of this historic site.