Nestled in the heart of Puglia, Lecce should be top of your must-visit destinations in Italy. From the spectacular architecture to the shimmering ocean, there are a plethora of things that are sure to capture your attention. Whether you’re visiting with family or are planning on roaming the streets with a group of your closest friends, you’ll be sure to have a fantastic time. Find out more about the Italian city below!
1. It is nicknamed “The Florence of the South.”
With monuments around the city carefully created in the architectural style of Baroque, Lecce has been dubbed “The Florence of the South” by many. From Lecce Cathedral, a grand, imposing building that was originally erected in 1144 and restored in 1659-1670, to the Rococo altar of St. Andrew Avellino, there are many architectural delights to feast your eyes upon.
2. After being conquered by the Romans, it was given the name Lupiae
Lecce has a rich history and has been under the control of several groups since being founded over 2000 years ago. It is the wealth of history that means that Lecce has many cultural delights for you to feast your eyes upon, in addition to learning about the many trials that the city has been put through over the 2000 years since it was found.
3. Thomas Ashe named Lecce the “most beautiful city in Italy”.
Traveller Thomas Ashe once called Lecce the most beautiful city in Italy. With its white-washed, Lecce stone, amphitheatre and the turquoise waters that line the edges of the city, it is easy to see why he is right. On a visit to the city, allow your eyes to gaze upon the spectacular structures while allowing your feet to walk the winding streets as you begin to understand exactly what it was that made Ashe come to this conclusion.
4. Lecce stone is the city’s main export
A form of limestone, Lecce stone is one of the city’s main exports. Used mostly in Salento, the stone is a fine, bio-calcarenite and is especially soft and malleable. Because of this, the stone is prone to deteriorating due to its porous structure. If you find yourselves wandering around Lecce looking for examples of this stone in action, you’ll be able to find some structures which feature the pale material.
5. The average temperature is 24ºC
Although in winter Lecce experiences rainfall, during the summer months it enjoys a milder, Mediterranean climate which makes it the perfect holiday destination for everyone. It’s these temperatures that make this the ideal location for families, as the heat isn’t too hot. Additionally, it is wonderful if you’re planning on exploring the city, as it means that you won’t get too warm while wandering the streets. For those of you who want to take a dip in the sea, the warmer temperatures mean that the water lapping at your toes is a cooling reward at the end of a long day!
6. Lecce is on the heel of the boot
In the region of Puglia, Lecce can be found in the heel of the boot. The city, which covers 238km², is home to almost 96,000 inhabitants and is considered the capital of Puglia. For those who are looking to experience traditional Puglian life, Lecce is exactly the place for you. Grab a bite to eat at a local restaurant or pick up souvenirs in one of the many quaint shops that you can find; you’ll be sure to have a fantastic time when visiting.
If you’re planning a trip to Lecce soon, take a look at our range of villas in Puglia with a pool. From family-friendly properties to the perfect option for those who are looking to have a romantic getaway, we’re sure that you’ll be able to find your dream holiday accommodation on our website. If you’re curious about discovering more about whether Puglia is the right Italian region for you to visit, why not read our guide to Bari, one of the regions other great cities!
