The underrated Italian town dubbed 'the Florence of the South' for its stunning beauty
The Apulian city is rarely included in the itineraries of foreigners as its beauty is often underestimated if not even ignored.
One of the most underrated Italian cities by foreign tourists can boast the nickname "Florence of the South" thanks to its architectural and natural beauties.
Lecce, in Apulia, amazes visitors with its abundance of baroque architecture and cultural offerings.
As soon as one crosses the threshold of the city, you feel immersed in a magical and evocative atmosphere, made up of narrow alleys and ancient buildings with ornate facades.
The small city has also earned the nickname "Lady of the Baroque" as it is home to some of the finest examples of the 17th-century architectural style.
Lecce is a riot of art, historical and religious buildings, such as the Basilica of Santa Croce, the Piazza del Duomo with the bell tower and the Bishop's Palace.
Over the centuries, the city has also become popular for Lecce stone, a type of particularly malleable limestone used in the construction of many buildings, especially baroque ones.
A visit to the Roman Amphitheatre, in Piazza Sant'Oronzo, is a must. The monument is the symbol of the importance achieved by the city between the 1st and 2nd centuries AD.
The monumental complex of Torre del Parco represents one of the romantic places par excellence.
A symbolic monument of the city from the medieval and Renaissance periods, it is today a fascinating historic residence where it is possible to organise events and romantic dinners.
Lecce is an important university and cultural centre, with a lively nightlife, many clubs and interesting cultural and artistic events throughout the year.
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Among these is the "Open Courtyards" event which allows visitors to access the interiors of the majestic buildings in the city centre to explore the courtyards usually closed to the public.
Lecce is located in the Apulian hinterland but the coast is quickly reachable. Among the most famous beaches are the beautiful Baia dei Turchi and Punta Prosciutto Beach on the other side of the coast.
Like most Italian cities and towns, Lecce also boasts a strong connection to traditional food, among which are "ciceri e tria" – a mouthwatering combination of pasta and chickpeas – and Puccia, a round, thin sandwich made with leavened bread dough filled with a large variety of fillings.
Visitors with a sweet tooth must try pasticciotto, a delicious shortcrust pastry shell, filled with custard and a heart of black cherry, often enriched with a sprinkling of icing sugar.
