Lecce

Lecce

Lecce and its province represent one of the most splendid gems of Salento, a land rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Lecce, known as the "Florence of the South," is famous for its extraordinary Baroque heritage, with churches, palaces, and squares that tell centuries of art and architecture. The Basilica of Santa Croce, Piazza del Duomo, and the Roman Theater are just a few of the places that enchant visitors. The province of Lecce offers a variety of landscapes ranging from the gentle hills of the Salento countryside to breathtaking coastlines, with the famous beaches of Otranto, Gallipoli, and Porto Cesareo attracting tourists from all over the world every year thanks to their crystal-clear waters. Villages like Nardò, Galatina, and Maglie are perfect places to immerse oneself in the Salento tradition, with their historic centers, frescoed churches, and farmhouses that tell the story of a region rich in culture. Lecce's cuisine is another major attraction, with typical dishes like "orecchiette with turnip greens," "pastizzo," and "pasticciotti," pastries that make every meal an unforgettable experience. Lecce and its province are the perfect destination for those seeking a blend of art, nature, and traditions, in one of the most fascinating areas of southern Italy.

Places to visit

Lecce

Lecce, the beating heart of Salento, is a city that captivates with its Baroque beauty, earning it the nickname "Florence of the South." Its historic center is a true open-air museum, with extraordinary monuments like the Basilica of Santa Croce, the Cathedral of Lecce, and the Roman Theatre, which tell centuries of history, art, and culture. The streets of the center form a maze of charming alleys, elegant squares, and palaces that shine with the characteristic "leccese stone," giving the city a unique atmosphere. Lecce is also a lively city, with numerous cultural events, festivals, and a gastronomic scene that highlights the authentic flavors of Salento. Dishes like "orecchiette with turnip tops" and typical sweets like "pasticciotti" are a delight for the taste buds. The city is also well-positioned to explore the beautiful coasts of Salento, with enchanting beaches like those of Otranto and Gallipoli just a short distance away. Lecce is the perfect destination for those seeking a mix of history, art, culture, and traditions, all immersed in a captivating landscape.

Santa Maria di Leuca

Santa Maria di Leuca, located at the southern tip of Salento, is one of the most captivating destinations in Puglia. Known as "the finibus terrae," it is the point where the Ionian Sea meets the Adriatic Sea, creating a spectacular setting. Its lighthouse, one of the most powerful in Italy, is a symbol of this enchanting corner of the world, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the sea. The town is famous for its elegant architecture, with 19th-century villas and churches overlooking the sea, such as the Basilica of Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae. The crystal-clear waters and hidden coves, like those of Felloniche and the "Dragon's Grotto," are perfect for those who love the sea and unspoiled nature. Santa Maria di Leuca is also an important pilgrimage center, thanks to its religious history linked to the cult of Santa Maria. With its stunning landscapes, the charm of the sea, and its peaceful atmosphere, Santa Maria di Leuca is a delightful corner for those seeking relaxation, culture, and nature in the heart of Salento.

Otranto

Otranto, overlooking the Adriatic Sea, is one of the jewels of Salento, a charming town with deep roots in a rich history and culture. Its historic center, characterized by narrow streets and picturesque squares, is dominated by the majestic Cathedral of Otranto, famous for its extraordinary floor mosaic depicting biblical and mythological stories. The Aragonese Castle, standing on the coast, offers a breathtaking view of the sea and the town. Otranto is also known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, such as those at Baia dei Turchi and Alimini, making it an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and nature. The town has a vibrant gastronomic tradition, with dishes featuring fresh fish and Salentine specialties like "pasticciotti" and "puccia." Otranto is the perfect blend of history, sea, and traditions, a captivating corner of Salento that leaves an unforgettable memory for visitors.

Nardò

Nardò, located in the heart of Salento, is a town that captivates with its historic center rich in history and traditions. With its characteristic urban layout, made up of cobblestone streets, elegant squares, and Baroque palaces, Nardò is a place where the past blends perfectly with the present. The Cathedral of Nardò and the Castle, with its imposing walls, are among the most representative landmarks of the city, which has preserved its authenticity intact. The town is also famous for its artisanal and culinary traditions, with typical dishes like "pittule" and fresh fish that reflect the deep connection with the sea. Just a few kilometers from the center, you will find some of the most beautiful beaches in Salento, such as those at Porto Selvaggio, a nature reserve that offers crystal-clear waters and unspoiled nature. Nardò is an ideal destination for those seeking a mix of history, culture, and sea, immersed in the authentic beauty of Salento.

Gallipoli

Gallipoli, overlooking the Ionian Sea, is one of the most beloved destinations in Salento, famous for its natural beauty and charming historic center. The city, divided between the modern area and the old town, is a place where history blends with the liveliness of the sea. The historic center, located on an island connected to the mainland by a bridge, is a maze of narrow alleys, small squares, and Baroque churches, such as the Cathedral of Sant'Agata. Gallipoli is also famous for its breathtaking beaches, such as those of Baia Verde and Punta della Suina, which attract tourists every year with their crystal-clear waters and fine sand. Its lively and picturesque harbor is the heart of the city, where you can admire the fishermen's boats and enjoy fresh seafood dishes, such as the famous "pesce alla gallipolina." With its unique atmosphere, ancient history, and turquoise waters, Gallipoli is a perfect destination for those seeking a mix of culture, relaxation, and Salento traditions.

Porto Cesareo

Porto Cesareo, located on the Ionian coast of Salento, is one of Puglia's seaside gems, famous for its crystal-clear waters and long sandy beaches. Its coastline, with beautiful bays and nearby islands such as Isola dei Conigli, is a paradise for sea lovers and divers, thanks to its rich marine life on the seabed. The center of Porto Cesareo is characterized by a lively and welcoming atmosphere, with numerous restaurants offering dishes made from fresh seafood, including the famous "granfritto di mare." The town also boasts the Marine Biology Museum, which showcases the area's biodiversity, and the old Torre Cesarea, an ancient lookout tower that is now one of the town's symbols. With its natural beauty, enchanting beaches, and gastronomic traditions, Porto Cesareo is the perfect destination for those seeking a combination of relaxation, the sea, and culture in the heart of Salento.