Dive Deep into Lecce: The Baroque Jewel of the South - Spanish/Portuguese

Known as the Baroque capital of Southern Italy, this 4-hour walking tour of Lecce gives you a glimpse into the city’s charming elegant palaces, intricate churches, and vibrant streets. As you explore the city’s charming historic center, you’ll discover the stunning architecture that gives Lecce the nickname “Gem of the South.”

Your journey begins with a visit to the Basilica of Santa Croce, a masterpiece of 17th-century Baroque exuberance. As you learn about this symbol of the essence of Baroque Lecce, you’ll be able to admire its exquisite facade, adorned with cherubs, dragons, and intricate carvings, each one telling a story of the city’s rich history.

Next, you’ll get to visit the breathtaking Cathedral of Lecce, dedicated to Our Lady, which was reconstructed in the late 1600s after the plague. Still standing as a testament to the resilience and grandeur of Lecce, you’ll learn about the cathedral’s ornate design and historical significance. As you continue to visit the city, you’ll notice the prominence of the Baroque style in the grand palaces and churches, built with the region’s signature local limestone, a soft, malleable stone that artisans have used for centuries to carve intricate details.

As you wander through the narrow, winding streets of the historic center, you’ll get to visit the Roman amphitheater that dates back to the Augustan age. Built to entertain up to 14,000 spectators, this ancient structure with its arcades and columns, is an impressive reminder of Lecce’s Roman past and will transport you back to a time when gladiators and spectators filled the city.

You’ll also visit the imposing Castello di Carlo V, a fortress built by the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V. This historic castle offers panoramic views of the city and provides insight into Lecce’s rich military history. The tour wraps up with a stroll through Sant’Oronzo Square, where the blend of Roman and Baroque influences create a truly unique atmosphere. By the end of the walking tour, you will have a better understanding of the beauty, history, and culture of Lecce, one of Italy’s most breathtaking cities!