GemmaIf architecture excites you, Lecce in Italy is the kind of city that feels like it was built just for you. Known as the “Florence of the South,” this Baroque gem in Puglia is full of intricate details, grand churches, and ornate palaces that tell centuries-old stories through stone, stucco, and sculpture. Whether you’re wandering narrow cobblestone streets or peeking inside hidden courtyards, Lecce offers experiences that make your love for architecture come alive. From my own personal experience, there’s a sense of awe in every corner here—it’s the kind of place where even a casual stroll turns into an architectural lesson.
In this guide, I’ll take you through 10 must-see things to do in Lecce if architecture is your passion. These are places that will inspire, teach, and leave you marveling at the craftsmanship of past centuries.
1. Explore the Piazza del Duomo
The heart of Lecce’s architectural magic lies in the Piazza del Duomo, a stunning square that seems almost suspended in time. Unlike many European squares that are open and bustling, this one feels intimate and carefully composed. Here you’ll find the Cathedral of Lecce (Duomo di Lecce), with its ornate Baroque facade and a bell tower that invites you to climb for a panoramic view of the city.
The square itself is a perfect mix of form and function. Surrounded by the bishop’s palace, seminary, and other historical buildings, it’s a living example of urban planning where beauty meets purpose. Standing here, you can trace the layering of centuries: Romanesque foundations, Baroque flourishes, and subtle Renaissance details. It’s a place where you can pause, breathe, and just marvel at the elegance of design.
2. Discover the Basilica di Santa Croce
If there is one building that defines Lecce’s architectural identity, it is the Basilica di Santa Croce. From my own personal experience, this church was a jaw-dropping moment when I first visited. Every inch of its facade is decorated with intricate carvings: floral motifs, cherubs, and mythological figures all sculpted into the soft Lecce stone.
Inside, the richness continues. The nave is framed by soaring columns, delicate frescoes, and a sense of proportion that balances grandeur with grace. Don’t rush your visit; take time to notice how light plays on the carvings during different times of the day—it’s a lesson in Baroque drama and elegance.
3. Wander the Streets of Lecce’s Historic Center
Lecce’s historic center is not just a collection of monuments; it’s a living, breathing museum. Walking through Via Vittorio Emanuele II and Via Libertini, you’ll discover hidden courtyards, tiny chapels, and palaces with ornate balconies. The city’s unique Lecce stone, a soft limestone, allows artisans to carve almost anything they imagine.
As you wander, look up at the balconies. Many are decorated with floral motifs, human faces, and fantastical animals. From my overall experience, these small details are what make Lecce so special—you can spend hours exploring and still feel like you’ve missed something.
4. Admire the Roman Amphitheatre
Not all of Lecce’s architecture is Baroque. The Roman Amphitheatre, located in Piazza Sant’Oronzo, is a striking reminder that the city has ancient roots. This partially excavated arena dates back to the 2nd century AD and could host up to 25,000 spectators.
Visiting the amphitheatre gives you a chance to imagine Roman life in a provincial town. The semicircular structure, tiered seating, and central arena are all designed with precision, showing the Roman commitment to both engineering and spectacle. For architecture lovers, it’s fascinating to see how these principles of symmetry, proportion, and functionality continue to influence building design centuries later.
5. Step into Palazzo Vernazza
If palaces are your thing, Palazzo Vernazza is a must. This private residence turned museum displays the elegance of Lecce’s aristocratic architecture. The courtyard is a marvel, with a central well, decorative arches, and a calm symmetry that contrasts beautifully with the ornate exteriors.
Walking through its halls, you get a sense of how architecture shapes daily life. From my own personal experience, the way natural light streams through the windows into the interior spaces creates an atmosphere of tranquility and sophistication. It’s architecture you can live in, not just look at.
6. Explore the Church of Sant’Irene
The Church of Sant’Irene is a quieter yet profoundly beautiful spot. Its Baroque style is evident in the delicate facade and the subtle interplay of light and shadow. Inside, you’ll find altars, frescoes, and intricate stucco work that demonstrate the skill of Lecce’s artisans.
This church is less crowded than the Basilica di Santa Croce, offering a moment of peaceful reflection. From my overall experience, places like this are gems—they let you absorb the artistry without distraction and give you a deeper appreciation for the city’s architectural richness.
7. Visit the Porta Napoli
Architecture isn’t only about buildings—it’s also about gateways, and Porta Napoli is Lecce’s most iconic. Built in 1548, this city gate blends Renaissance design with local Baroque influences. It was originally a symbol of welcome and defense, and walking under its arches gives you a sense of history and civic pride.
Notice the decorative elements: the city’s coat of arms, statues, and carvings are all meant to impress visitors while narrating Lecce’s identity. It’s a small but powerful architectural statement, proving that even entrances can be grand and meaningful.
8. Take in the Column of Sant’Oronzo
No visit to Lecce is complete without seeing the Column of Sant’Oronzo. This towering monument honors the city’s patron saint and is surrounded by charming squares that blend old-world charm with modern life.
The column itself is a study in vertical design, proportion, and symbolism. From my own personal experience, standing at its base and looking up makes you appreciate how architecture can inspire awe and reverence simultaneously. It’s also a great spot to observe Lecce’s blend of urban life and historical architecture.
9. Discover Hidden Courtyards and Palazzi
While major landmarks are essential, Lecce’s hidden courtyards and small palaces hold secrets that architecture lovers truly cherish. Many private residences feature inner gardens, stone staircases, and wrought-iron balconies that reveal the city’s artistic DNA.
Exploring these spaces feels like being let in on a secret. From my overall experience, the joy of stumbling upon a hidden courtyard with intricate carvings or a quiet fountain is unmatched. It’s a reminder that architecture isn’t just about grandiosity—it’s about detail, function, and the human touch.
10. Enjoy Lecce’s Contemporary Architectural Spots
Lecce is proud of its history, but it’s not frozen in time. The city also embraces contemporary design, with new buildings that respect traditional materials while exploring modern forms. Projects around Piazza Mazzini and along the Via Cesare Battisti showcase how Lecce continues to evolve architecturally.
As an architecture enthusiast, it’s fascinating to see how old and new interact. You can admire a centuries-old palazzo and then turn a corner to find sleek, modern lines that don’t clash but complement the historic fabric of the city. From my own personal experience, witnessing this dialogue between eras is one of the city’s hidden delights.
Final Thoughts on Lecce for Architecture Lovers
Lecce is more than a city—it’s a living museum where every street, square, and building tells a story. From Baroque churches and Roman ruins to hidden courtyards and contemporary designs, it offers a rich tapestry for anyone passionate about architecture.
The best way to enjoy Lecce is on foot. Wander without a strict plan, look up, take photos of details, and immerse yourself in the craftsmanship that makes this city unforgettable. From my own personal experience, even after multiple visits, Lecce never stops surprising me with new angles, hidden gems, and moments of architectural brilliance that make you fall in love all over again.
Whether you’re studying architecture, sketching facades, or simply enjoying the beauty of a well-designed city, Lecce promises experiences that are both educational and inspiring. If you love design, artistry, and history, Lecce is a destination you truly need to explore—it’s a city that stays with you long after you leave.
I’m Gemma, a passionate lifestyle blogger sharing my creative world with you. Gemitaliano.com is my little corner of the internet, glad you’re here.