Lecce Architecture

Piazza del Duomo, a gem of Baroque architecture, is located in the heart of Lecce’s historic center.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Norman with later Baroque alterations
• Built: 12th century (Remodeled in 16th century)
• Address: Piazza del Duomo, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A hidden gem beneath the cathedral featuring 92 monolithic columns topped with ornate capitals, two Baroque chapels, and preserved medieval sepulchral architecture.

aka Bell Tower

• Architect: Giuseppe Zimbalo (“lo Zingarello”)
• Style: Barocco Leccese (Lecce Baroque)
• Built: 1661–1682
• Address: Piazza del Duomo, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A towering 72-meter structure in soft Lecce stone, structured in five tapered orders topped by an octagonal majolica dome with a statue of Saint Orontius; it leans slightly due to settlement.

Episcopio aka Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Lecce

• Architect: façade redesigned by Emanuele Manieri (1758)
• Style: Barocco Leccese
• Built: 1758
• Address: P.za del Duomo, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

The facade of the Bishop’s Palace, designed by Emanuele Manieri in 1758, is a masterpiece featuring a magnificent Baroque central element with a grand entrance arch, numerous arches, and a receding upper section. This building spectacularly completes the perspective of the square, complementing the side facade of the Cathedral. At the upper part is the clock crafted in 1764 by Domenico Panico from Lecce.

aka Seminary

• Architect: Giuseppe Cino (1694–1709); third level added by Emanuele Manieri (1729)
• Style: Barocco Leccese (Lecce Baroque)
• Built: 1694–1709 (with top level added 1729)
• Address: Piazza del Duomo 11, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A sophisticated structure with ashlar pilasters, loggia, inner courtyard with Baroque well, and statue of Saint Irene.

• Architect: Giuseppe Cino (altarpiece and decorative elements)
• Style: Lecce Baroque (Barocco Leccese)
• Built: 1696 (year of the main altarpiece painting)
• Address: Inside the Palazzo del Seminario (Antico Seminario), access via the cloister in Piazza del Duomo, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Tucked away in the cloister of the former Seminary, this intimate private chapel retains refined Baroque richness. The main altarpiece—a depiction of Saint Gregory Thaumaturgus—is by Paolo de Matteis (1696), framed by intricate Lecce stonework and twisting Solomonic (spiral) columns. Two side altars are dedicated to Saint Irene and Saint Vincent, while doors to the sacristy are flanked by sculptures of Saint Oronzo and Saint Liborius.

• Architect: Emanuele Manieri (propylea and surrounding buildings) in 18th century
• Style: Barocco Leccese (Lecce Baroque)
• Built: Development completed in the 18th century (propylea late 1700s)
• Address: Piazza del Duomo, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A rare “closed” Baroque piazza framed by cathedral, bell tower, bishop’s palace, seminary, and monumental propylea—a theatrical courtyard design

aka Basilica of the Holy Cross

• Architect: Gabriele Riccardi (lower façade & dome), Francesco Antonio Zimbalo (portals), Cesare Penna (upper façade & rose window), Giuseppe Zimbalo (decoration of upper façade)
• Style: Barocco Leccese (Lecce Baroque)
• Built: 1549–1695 (lower façade by 1582, dome 1590, portals from 1606, completed 1695)
• Address: Via Umberto I, 1, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A masterpiece of Lecce Baroque, its façade is an exuberant display of sculptural richness—cherubs, grotesques, a rose window, and symbolic figures. The interior follows a Latin-cross plan, housing 17 richly decorated altars including works by Zimbalo and Penna, all rendered in soft “pietra Leccese.”

aka Santa Chiara

• Architect: Giuseppe Cino (structure & decoration), project by G.A. Larducci
• Style: Barocco Leccese (Lecce Baroque)
• Built: Rebuilt 1687–1691 (on site of 15th-century structure founded 1429)
• Address: Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A Baroque gem with a slightly convex façade and an octagonal interior. Its richly ornamented altars and striking papier‑mâché ceiling evoke theatrical artistry characteristic of Lecce’s Baroque era.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Lecce Baroque
• Built: Unknown
• Address: Via dei Perroni, 29, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A lesser-documented church believed to feature local stone and Baroque details. Further archival research needed for architectural specifics.

• Architect: Giuseppe Zimbalo (late work on façade and finishing touches)
• Style: Barocco Leccese (Lecce Baroque)
• Built: Started late 17th century (1691), continued into early 18th century
• Address: Via Giuseppe Libertini, 5, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A Dominican sanctuary built in the dramatic local Baroque style. Zimbalo completed key sections, creating a richly decorated church that blends the dynamic Lecce aesthetic with ecclesiastical grandeur.

• Architect: Francesco Grimaldi
• Style: Barocco Leccese (Lecce Baroque)
• Built: Began 1591, consecrated 1639
• Address: Via degli Antoglietta, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Dedicated to Lecce’s former patron saint, this Baroque church was pivotal in civic life, hosting significant historical events like the plebiscite of 1860. Its façade and interiors reflect the ornate local style.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Renaissance
• Built: 16th century
• Address: Piazzetta dei Peruzzi, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

The Church of Saint Mary ‘degli Angeli’ is a Renaissance-style church located in Lecce’s historic center. Built in the 16th century, it features a restrained yet elegant façade typical of the period, with decorative stonework in local pietra leccese.

• Architect: Unknown (commissioned by Tancred, King of Sicily)
• Style: Romanesque with later Baroque modifications
• Built: 1180
• Address: Via Cimitero, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Founded by King Tancred in 1180, this Romanesque church later acquired Baroque features during 18th-century renovations. It is noted for its carved portal and serene cloister surrounded by ancient cypress trees.

• Architect: Giuseppe Maiola da Maddaloni
• Style: Neoclassical
• Built: 1852 to 1858 (rebuilt)
• Address: Via Giuseppe Palmieri, 52, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Chiesa di Santa Maria della Porta o di San Luigi (Church of Saint Mary della Porta or Saint Louis)

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Barocco Leccese
• Built: 1663
• Address: Piazzetta SS. Addolorata, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Built in the 17th century, the Church of Saint Angelus features elaborate Lecce Baroque ornamentation and is tucked into a small square in the old city.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 1585
• Address: Via Ernesto Alvino, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

This late 16th-century Baroque church is known for its richly decorated façade in local stone, featuring volutes, scrolls, and floral motifs typical of Lecce’s architectural tradition.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Neoclassical
• Built: 1765
• Address: Piazzetta Chiesa Greca, 15, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

This Neoclassical church served Lecce’s Greek Orthodox community and is characterized by its simple, symmetrical façade.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 1711
• Address: Piazza Tancredi, 2, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Located just outside the historic center, the Church of Saint Mary of the Carmel is richly decorated inside, reflecting the exuberance of 18th-century Baroque design.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Barocco Leccese
• Built: 1714 (opened)
• Address: Via Benedetto Cairoli, 15, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

San Francesco della Scarpa, called the “church without a façade,” had its façade removed in 19th-century restorations. Its oldest section dates back to the 13th and 14th centuries, with an interior designed as a Greek Cross. It features several Baroque altars and a large statue of Saint Joseph.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Rococo
• Built: June 7, 1779
• Address: Via Idomeneo, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A late 18th-century Rococo church with elegant curved forms and delicate stucco decorations, dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Barocco Leccese
• Built: 1584
• Address: Via degli Acaya, 7, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

This small Baroque church features intricate stone ornamentation and a compact single-nave interior.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Renaissance
• Built: 1520
• Address: Vico dei Sotterranei, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Originally built in the early 16th century, this Renaissance church now serves as a museum.

Chiesa del Gesù

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 1575–17th century
• Address: Piazza Castromediano Sigismondo, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Built for the Jesuits, this church takes inspiration from the Gesù in Rome, featuring a Latin cross plan, rich altars, and elaborate Lecce Baroque decoration.

aka Church of the Alcantarines (Chiesa delle Alcantarine)

• Architect: Giuseppe Cino (later modified by Mauro Manieri)
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 1703
• Address: Piazzetta Giorgio Baglivi, 20, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Also called the Church of the Alcantarines, this Baroque building was constructed for a convent of nuns, with later design changes adding to its decorative complexity.

Chiesetta di San Marco aka Ex Chiesa di San Marco

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Renaissance
• Built: 16th century
• Address: Piazza Sant’Oronzo, 41, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Once serving Lecce’s Venetian merchants, this modest Renaissance church stands in the city’s main square.

Chiesa di Santa Teresa

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Barocco Leccese
• Built: 1620
• Address: Via Giuseppe Libertini, 41, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A striking example of Lecce Baroque, with a façade rich in sculptural detail and an interior filled with ornate altars.

Chiesa di Sant’Anna

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 1680
• Address: Via Giuseppe Libertini, 15, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Built as part of a convent complex, this church features a richly decorated Baroque façade and stucco-filled interior.

Chiesa di San Giovanni Evangelista

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 17th century
• Address: Corte Conte Accardo, 7, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A 17th-century Baroque church with a single nave and richly adorned interior, historically linked to a Benedictine convent.

Chiesa di San Giuseppe

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 16th–18th century
• Address: Via Vito Fazzi, 13, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Developed over two centuries, this church combines early Baroque features with later Lecce Baroque ornamentation.

Chiesa Madre di Dio e San Nicolo

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Barocco Leccese
• Built: 1631
• Address: Via Carlo Russi, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A parish church featuring finely carved Lecce stone details, typical of the early 17th century.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 1519
• Address: Via Corrado Capece, 1–33, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Built in the early 16th century, this church shows a transition from Renaissance proportions to Lecce Baroque decorative richness.

Chiesa di San Giacomo (San Pasquale)

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Lecce Baroque
• Built: 1679 (completed)
• Address: Via Antonio Miglietta, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Also known as San Pasquale al Parco, this Baroque church stands near the Parco Tower. It was dedicated to Saint James and later associated with Saint Paschal Baylón. The façade features ornate Baroque flourishes characteristic of Lecce’s unique style.

Chiesa di Santa Maria della Pace

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Unknown
• Built: Unknown
• Address: Via Giuseppe Palmieri, 43, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A historic Lecce church dedicated to Our Lady of Peace, though detailed historical and architectural records are scarce.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Unknown
• Built: Unknown
• Address: Via Imperatore Adriano, 79, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Located within the Pinacoteca d’arte francescana, this Franciscan sanctuary is a devotional site honoring Saint Anthony of Padua.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Romanesque
• Built: 1761 (opened)
• Address: Via delle Benedettine, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A monastic complex that preserves Romanesque elements despite later renovations. It has served as a center of Benedictine spiritual life for centuries.

aka Celestine Convent

• Architect: Giuseppe Zimbalo
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 1549–1695
• Address: Via Umberto I, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A monumental Baroque complex with a courtyard designed by Gabriele Riccardi. Once housing the Celestine monks, the building now forms part of the Palazzo dei Celestini, seat of the Province of Lecce.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: A Baroque monastic complex
• Built: Construction began around 1620, with completion estimated in the early 17th century
• Address: Located adjacent to the Church of Santa Teresa on Via Giuseppe Libertini, in the southern part of Lecce’s historic center, just inside the old city walls

The Convento dei Teresiani formed the religious quarters for Discalced Carmelite friars who arrived in Lecce early in the 17th century. Built next to the church of Santa Teresa, the convent organizes its spaces around a central cloister. The ground floor features a sequence of semicircular arches supported by smooth-shafted pillars, while the upper floor opens onto a loggia—both supporting vaulted ceilings that are occasionally decorated with frescoes in lunettes and ornate keystones.

Historically, following the suppression of the order in 1807, the convent served as a Carabinieri barracks and later operated as a school; its attached church was even repurposed as storage for tobacco before restoration by a local confraternity in 1831.

Today, the space is being repurposed under adaptive reuse initiatives: it is the subject of a regional design competition aiming to convert the building into a university residence—integrating modern functionality (like new public circulation, lifts, and rooftop access) into its historical framework while preserving the cloister’s architectural value.

Convento Dei Gesuiti

Built: 18th century

Served as the Jesuit order’s center in Lecce during the 18th century, closely linked to the nearby Church of Jesus.

Convento dei Teatini aka Monastery of the Theatines aka Theatine Monastery

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Unknown
• Built: 17th century
• Address: Via Vittorio Emanuele II, 34, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Founded by the Theatine order, this monastic complex reflects Lecce’s Baroque tradition, with ornate interiors and a strong ecclesiastical presence in the city.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 1649
• Address: Viale Michele de Pietro, 10, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

This former Augustinian convent preserves Baroque architectural detailing and later served civic and cultural purposes.

• Address: Piazzetta di Giosuè Carducci, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Once an educational institution, the building now serves as a cultural venue in the heart of Lecce’s historic center.

Ex Monastero degli Olivetani di Lecce

• Style: Lecce Baroque
• Address: Viale S. Nicola, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

This historic Olivetan monastery features Baroque decorative elements and is situated near the ancient city walls.

Chiostro dei Domenicani

• Built: 15th century
• Address: Via S. Pietro in Lama, 23, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

This 15th-century Dominican cloister sits just outside Lecce’s city walls and is notable for its tranquil courtyard and preserved monastic architecture.

Castello Carlo V

• Architect: Gian Giacomo dell’Acaya
• Style: Renaissance military architecture
• Built: 1539 (opened)
• Address: Via XXV Luglio, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A massive Renaissance fortress designed by military engineer Gian Giacomo dell’Acaya to strengthen Lecce’s defenses. It served as a military garrison, later as a prison, and today houses exhibitions and cultural events.

aka Palazzo Vernazza

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Renaissance with Baroque elements
• Built: 16th century
• Address: Vicolo Vernazza, 8, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

One of Lecce’s oldest noble residences, the palace features underground chambers, historic frescoes, and architectural details that span from the Renaissance to the Baroque period.

aka Palazzo Sedile

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Renaissance
• Built: 1592
• Address: Piazza Sant’Oronzo, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Originally used as the seat of the city council until 1852, this Renaissance building now hosts art exhibitions and cultural events.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 17th century
• Address: Via Guglielmo Paladini, 10, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A noble residence showcasing ornate Baroque balconies and finely carved Lecce stone details.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Contemporary reinterpretation of Lecce Baroque
• Built: 21st century (modern restoration)
• Address: Via Roberto Caracciolo, 22, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A restored palace blending historic architecture with modern design, now serving as a luxury boutique hotel.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 17th century
• Address: Via Guglielmo Paladini, 50, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

An elegant Baroque residence belonging to the noble Tamborino and Cezzi families, noted for its grand portal and sculpted balconies.

aka Palazzo dei Celestini (Provincia di Lecce)

• Architect: Giuseppe Zimbalo
• Style: Baroque 
• Built: 1659 to 1695
• Address: Via Umberto I, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Palazzo dei Celestini is now seat of the Province of Lecce.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 17th–18th century
• Address: Via Santa Maria del Paradiso, 8, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A large monastic-style building with a Baroque façade, now used for cultural and institutional purposes.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 18th century
• Address: Via Giuseppe Palmieri, 42, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Distinguished by its elaborate Lecce stone detailing, the palace belonged to one of Lecce’s prominent noble families.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 17th century
• Address: Vicolo Vernazza, 4, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A historic noble residence transformed into elegant guest accommodations, retaining original Baroque architectural features.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 17th century
• Address: Vicolo Vernazza, 7, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Once the home of the powerful Castromediano family, the palace showcases typical Lecce Baroque detailing and grand arched windows.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque with contemporary restoration
• Built: 18th century
• Address: Via Guglielmo Paladini, 47, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

An aristocratic residence now functioning as a luxury boutique hotel, combining historic Lecce stonework with modern design elements.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 18th century
• Address: Via Nazario Sauro, 56, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A refined Baroque palace featuring ornate balconies and sculptural details typical of Lecce’s golden architectural era.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 18th century
• Address: Via Umberto I, 38, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A luxurious heritage hotel housed in an 18th-century palace, restored with an emphasis on preserving original Baroque details.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 17th century
• Address: Via Vittorio Emanuele II, 14, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A family-owned palace with original frescoed ceilings and a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of Lecce.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Early 20th-century neoclassical
• Built: 20th century
• Address: Via XXV Luglio, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Originally a bank building, now converted into a luxury hotel, retaining its monumental neoclassical façade.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 17th century
• Address: Via Francesco Rubichi, 16, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A historic palace once home to the Carafa family, featuring a richly decorated Lecce stone façade.

aka Palais Guarini

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 17th century
• Address: Via Giuseppe Palmieri, 4, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

An aristocratic residence with an imposing Baroque entrance and intricate sculptural stonework.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 18th century
• Address: Via Guglielmo Paladini, 14, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A noble palace showcasing Lecce’s signature ornate balconies and decorative façades.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque with contemporary restoration
• Built: 17th century
• Address: Piazzetta De Summa Scipione, 4, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A historic palace transformed into a luxury boutique hotel, blending Lecce Baroque architecture with modern design and an art collection.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 18th century
• Address: Via Giuseppe Libertini, 36, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A noble residence with decorative stone balconies and ornate window frames characteristic of Lecce Baroque.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Neoclassical
• Built: 19th century
• Address: Viale dell’Università, 63, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A refined urban palace from the 19th century, with a balanced façade and restrained decorative elements.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 18th century
• Address: Via Marco Basseo, 25, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

An aristocratic residence featuring richly carved Lecce stone and a grand entrance portal.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 18th century
• Address: Via Vittorio dei Prioli, 18, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A historic palace with an interior courtyard, typical of noble residences in Lecce.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 18th century
• Address: Via Del Palazzo dei Conti di Lecce, 19/21, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A Lecce Baroque palace notable for its carved stone balconies and elegant proportions.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 18th century
• Address: Piazzetta Gabriele Riccardi, 13, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Originally a noble palace, now a luxury hotel, offering views of the Basilica di Santa Croce.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 17th century
• Address: Via Conte Gaufrido, 3, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A family-owned palace with frescoed interiors and a private courtyard.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 18th century
• Address: Via Umberto I, 9, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Historic palace turned luxury guesthouse, located in Lecce’s historic center.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 18th century
• Address: Via 95^ Reggimento Fanteria, 9, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Boutique accommodations in a restored Baroque palace.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 18th century
• Address: Piazzetta S. Giovanni dei Fiorentini, 9/primo piano, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

An elegant historic palace in the heart of Lecce, now housing a charming bed-and-breakfast.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 18th century
• Address: Via delle Bombarde, 4, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A noble palace featuring a private courtyard, restored with modern interiors for guest accommodations.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 18th century
• Address: Via Principi di Savoia, 38, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Historic residence of a noble Lecce family, with ornate stonework and spacious interiors.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 18th century
• Address: Viale Oronzo Quarta, 21, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Boutique hotel located in a renovated Baroque palace, blending period features with modern amenities.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 17th century
• Address: Via Giuseppe Libertini, 52, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Once the residence of the Apostolic Nuncio, this palace is a fine example of Lecce Baroque architecture.

Palais Loffredo Adorno

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Renaissance with Baroque elements
• Built: 16th century
• Address: Via Umberto I, 32, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A Renaissance palace later embellished with Baroque details, serving as the seat of the Province of Lecce.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 18th century
• Address: Via Vittorio Emanuele II, 29, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Elegant 18th-century residence featuring a richly decorated façade.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 18th century
• Address: Piazzetta Ignazio Falconieri, 2-6, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Grand palace with elaborate stone balconies, once home to the Marrese noble family.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 17th century
• Address: Via Marco Basseo, 16, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Historic palace characterized by finely worked stone portals and decorative balconies.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Renaissance
• Built: 1557
• Address: Via Giuseppe Libertini, 44, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Built for Teofilo Zimara, physician and philosopher, this palace is one of Lecce’s Renaissance landmarks.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 18th century
• Address: Piazzetta dei Peruzzi, 18, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Elegant palace with a simple yet refined façade, located in Lecce’s historic center.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 18th century
• Address: Viale Oronzo Quarta, ., 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Historical residence later adapted for modern use, retaining original architectural details.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Eclectic with Neo-Classical influences
• Built: 1889
• Address: Via Beccherie Vecchie, 7, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

19th-century villa blending classical proportions with decorative flourishes.

Corte di Giustizia Tributaria di Primo Grado di Lecce

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Neo-Classical
• Built: Early 20th century
• Address: Via Francesco Rubichi, 39, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Government building housing the tax court, featuring a stately stone façade.

• Architect: Likely Giangiacomo dell’Acaya
• Style: Renaissance with fortified elements
• Built: 16th century
• Address: Via Marco Basseo, 31, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Constructed for Scipione Sambiasi, this fortified palace incorporates defensive features alongside Renaissance elegance.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Late Medieval with fortified features
• Built: 1419
• Address: Viale Torre del Parco, 1, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Built by Giovanni Antonio Del Balzo Orsini, this 23-meter-high medieval tower was once surrounded by a bear-filled moat and served as a tribunal, mint, and later a Spanish viceroy residence.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Renaissance
• Built: Early 15th century
• Address: Via Vecchia Surbo, 48, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Circular tower constructed under Giovanni Antonio Del Balzo Orsini, surrounded by a moat, historically used as a residence and lookout post.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Renaissance military architecture
• Built: 16th century
• Address: Piazzetta dei Peruzzi, 18, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

The park preserves a section of Lecce’s historic urban walls, once part of an extensive defensive system built to protect the city from Ottoman incursions.

• Architect: Gian Giacomo dell’Acaya
• Style: Renaissance fortification
• Built: 16th century
• Address: Viale Michele de Pietro, 10, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A robust bastion forming part of Lecce’s defensive walls, designed by the famed military architect Gian Giacomo dell’Acaya to withstand cannon fire.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque triumphal arch
• Built: 1548
• Address: Piazzetta Arco di Trionfo, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Built to honor Emperor Charles V, this monumental arch once formed the northern gateway into Lecce.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 18th century (rebuilt)
• Address: Via Gorizia, 18, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Topped with statues of Saint Orontius, Saint Irene, and Saint Dominic, this grand city gate replaced an earlier medieval entrance.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 18th century
• Address: Piazza D’Italia, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Dedicated to Saint Blaise, this gate is characterized by its ornate columns, central arch, and stone carvings celebrating Lecce’s patron saint.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque and eclectic urban square
• Built: Developed mainly between the 17th and 20th centuries
• Address: Piazza Sant’Oronzo, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

The main square of Lecce, named after the city’s patron saint. It features the Roman Amphitheater, the Column of Saint Oronzo, and notable historic buildings blending Baroque and modern styles.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Modernist urban design
• Built: 20th century
• Address: Piazza Giuseppe Mazzini, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Lecce’s main modern commercial square, lined with shops, cafes, and offices, serving as a hub of local activity outside the old town.

• Architect: Unknown (Roman engineers)
• Style: Ancient Roman amphitheater
• Built: 2nd century AD
• Address: Piazza Sant’Oronzo, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Partially excavated Roman amphitheater that once seated up to 25,000 spectators. Today, it is used for concerts and cultural events.

Museo del Teatro Romano

• Architect: Unknown (Roman engineers)
• Style: Ancient Roman theater
• Built: 1st–2nd century AD
• Address: Via Del Teatro Romano, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

An Augustan-era Roman theater discovered in the 20th century, with a museum displaying artifacts found on-site.

• Architect: Unknown (Roman engineers)
• Style: Ancient Roman city ruins
• Built: Dates back to pre-Roman Messapian period, expanded in Roman times (1st century BC–4th century AD)
• Address: Via A. Mazzotta, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

The archaeological park of Rudiae is located three kilometers southwest of the city, yet still within its limits. This site was identified by Antonio de Ferraris, a Renaissance humanist from the region, as the former home of the poet Ennius. It was once a more significant city during Roman times and features its own amphitheater, a necropolis, and remains of substantial walls. The Porta Rudiae, which was built along the road leading from this site, is named after it.

• Architect: Vito Carrozzo
• Style: Neoclassical commemorative monument
• Built: 1822
• Address: Via Taranto, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Erected to honor Ferdinand I of the Two Sicilies, this stone obelisk is topped with a bronze statue of the king’s emblem and stands at the entrance to Porta Napoli.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 17th century
• Address: Piazzetta Arco di Prato, Lecce, Italy

A decorative arched gateway that once formed part of Lecce’s historic defensive structures, now an elegant passageway in the old town.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 17th century
• Address: Via Santa Maria del Paradiso, 8, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Former convent and conservatory for girls, featuring a Baroque façade and an intimate cloister.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Roman column with Baroque statue
• Built: Column—2nd century AD; statue—18th century
• Address: Piazza Sant’Oronzo, Lecce, Italy

A Roman column topped with a statue of Lecce’s patron saint, commemorating his protection of the city during the 1656 plague.

• Architect: Emanuele Manieri
• Style: Neoclassical
• Built: 1870
• Address: Via Giuseppe Palmieri, 83, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Historic theater named after composer Giovanni Paisiello, used for concerts, plays, and cultural events.

Former Holy Spirit Hospital

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 18th century
• Address: Via Giuseppe Libertini, 6, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Former hospital building with a Baroque façade, now repurposed for civic use.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque surroundings with later urban modifications
• Built: 17th–18th centuries (square layout)
• Address: Via Benedetto Cairoli, 7a, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

A charming square framed by historic buildings, often used for public gatherings and cultural events.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Early 20th-century civic architecture
• Built: Early 1900s
• Address: Corte Conte Accardo, 7, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Public elementary school named after Italian writer Edmondo De Amicis, showcasing simple yet dignified civic design.

• Architect: Oronzo Bernardini
• Style: Eclectic/Neoclassical
• Built: 1912
• Address: Via Salvatore Trinchese, 13-14, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Elegant theater restored in the 21st century, hosting opera, concerts, and theatrical performances.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Simple religious institutional
• Built: 20th century
• Address: Lecce, Italy

Convent and educational facility run by the Salesian Sisters of the Sacred Hearts, dedicated to teaching and community service.

aka Monument to the Fallen aka Monumento al Caduti

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Monumental commemorative
• Built: 20th century (post–World War I)
• Address: Lecce, Italy

Memorial dedicated to soldiers from Lecce who died in war, featuring symbolic sculptures and inscriptions.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Monumental cemetery with eclectic funerary art
• Built: 19th century
• Address: Viale S. Nicola, 17, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

City cemetery containing ornate family chapels, sculptures, and tombs reflecting local artistry.

Teatro Politeama Greco

• Architect: Mauro Manieri (attribution debated)
• Style: Eclectic/Neoclassical
• Built: 1884
• Address: Via XXV Luglio, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy

Historic opera and concert theater that remains an important cultural venue in Lecce.

Lecce, often referred to as the “Florence of the South,” is famous for its stunning Baroque architecture. The architectural style is marked by intricate carvings, ornate facades, and a distinctive local stone known as “pietra leccese,” which enables highly detailed designs.

Key points to note include the use of soft, easily carved Lecce stone and the prevalence of elaborate Baroque details such as cherubs, floral motifs, and swirling patterns. Prominent landmarks like the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Lecce Cathedral showcase this unique architectural style.

Want to learn about the history of Lecce  with a guide? Book a highly-rated city tour while visiting Lecce!