The tour of Lecce, also known as the “Florence of Southern Italy,” begins at Porta Napoli and heads into the heart of the historic centre, with a visit to the Duomo in the charming Piazza del Duomo. The Baroque cathedral stands out for its elegant façade and the slender bell tower that dominates the square.
Continue to the Church of the Theatines, dedicated to St. Irene, and admire its impressive façade. Inside, discover some of its elegant Baroque altars, including those of St. Michael the Archangel, St. Andrew Avellino, St. Oronzo, St. Irene, and St. Stephen, enriched with valuable artworks and decorations.
Visit the Roman Amphitheatre in Piazza Sant’Oronzo, one of the most important remains from the Roman era in the city. Built between the 1st and 2nd centuries, it could accommodate over 25,000 spectators and was used for shows and combats. Today, part of its structure can still be admired, including seating areas and underground passages that reflect the grandeur of ancient Roman Lecce.
Reach the column topped by the statue of St. Oronzo, patron saint of Lecce, donated to the city by Brindisi. Once part of a pair, it marked the end of the legendary Appian Way, the main road connecting Rome to southern Italy.
The tour ends with a walk through the historic centre, including an external visit to the Basilica of Santa Croce, known for its elegant Baroque façade, and the Roman Theatre, where parts of the ancient structures are still visible, telling the storey of the city ’s Roman past. During the tour, you will taste a typical pasticciotto, a pastry filled with cream.
