SECRET SALENTO

Lecce is often dubbed "the Florence of the South" thanks to its incredible architecture (although Baroque) made possible by the unique quality of the local stone. Named after the city, the white "pietra leccese" is soft and pliable, factors which have contributed to its usability and popularity. The church of Santa Croce is considered to be the most exquisite creation of the Leccese Baroque style. It dates back to 1500, is characterized by a large rose window, one of the most elaborate and artistic features of the Baroque inspired church. Another interesting example of this style is the Church of the Rosario. Lecce is the capital of Salento and should be toured carefully. The most important sites include Santa Croce, the museums (especially Sigismondo Castromediano), the Roman ruins throughout the city, and St. Oronzo Square.

St. Oronzo Square is the center of the old town and the most lively meeting point of the city. The square takes its name from the statue of St. Oronzo, erected in honour of the eradication of the Plague in 1656. The column on which it stands is said to have marked the end of The Appian Way at Brindisi, and was a gift to the city of Lecce. St. Oronzo Square also holds the ruins of a Roman amphitheatre and the Palazzo del Sedile, the ancient seat of the communal government. In August, the city celebrates its patron saint with three days of festivities. From August 24 to August 26 the city is abuzz with concerts, theatrical demonstrations and fireworks. On the first day of the festas, a religious demonstration takes over the streets of the historical center via a procession to honor St. Oronzo. On the last day of the festas Lecce holds a livestock fair to celebrate the farmers of the region.

The Romans conquered Salento in 266 B.C. Remains of their long domination can be found in the form of theatres, sculptures, and stone inscriptions throughout Lecce. In the mid-16th century, Lecce became the second most important political and commercial city in Southern Italy. Renowned for its abundance of beautiful buildings, a distinctive form of Baroque evolved here that became internationally acclaimed called ‘Baroque Leccese'.

Just outside of Lecce, the beach of Saint Cataldo is close enough to Lecce to be filled primarily with Leccesi, who consider it an estension of their city. The beach has both a free public area and a paid, private area. The beach is sandy and the sea is shallow, and the pines of Aleppo are nearby, along with the naturally growing eucalyptus, combining for a tranquil paradise.