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Lecce is home to an astounding number of churches; there are 22 churches in Lecce, Italy listed on the local tourist map of the historic city center. Found tucked down quiet cobblestone lanes and featured on spacious squares, Lecce churches were designed to impress. We were in awe of the many churches we visited – most of which feature Lecce’s signature architectural style: Baroque.
Baroque Style Churches in Lecce
Lecce, Italy is lavishly decorated is the opulent Baroque style; the city is sometimes called the Baroque Capital of Southern Italy. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the ornamental architectural style dominated the city plans. Existing structures were renovated and new churches were built – all incorporating the extravagant style.
What is Baroque?
The Baroque style features intricate carvings that create a sense of movement marked with impeccable details. Popular motifs are columns, statues, animals, plants and scrolls.
The style flourished throughout Europe; and it was especially favored by the Roman Catholic Church. Not only were church facades adorned in Baroque architecture, but many of the church interiors feature the artistic style as well.
14 Amazing Churches in Lecce, Italy
We are highlighting our favorite Lecce churches – whether for the intricate architecture, decorative interior or storied past. Some churches are plain and simple, while a few are on the verge of being gaudy. Most churches in Lecce display original works of art – dating back several centuries.
Visiting hours vary, but are usually reserved for the morning with a few reopening in the evening. Not all churches have posted opening hours – and some aren’t open when they say they will be (making it a little difficult to make a plan!).
For each Lecce church on our list, we provide a brief introduction and a link to Google Maps. At the end of the post, you will find a Lecce Map of Churches – as well as printable map with an easy walking route that connects our recommended churches.
Update: During our Lecce visit, all churches were free to enter. However, they have implemented a fee to visit some of the churches. For 2023, a single ticket costing 9 Euro provides access into the Cathedral, the Basilica Santa Croce, San Matteo and Santa Chiara. Guided Lecce Church tours are also an option.
#1 Lecce Duomo Cathedral
{MAP} The Lecce Cathedral is the centerpiece of the Piazza del Duomo in Lecce, Italy, a nearly hidden square. The first church on the sight was built in 1114, then renovated in 1230. It was decorated in the Baroque style by famous architect Giuseppe Zimbolo in 1670.
The Duomo Cathedral is unique in that is has two decorated facades. The church was built in the shape of a cross (like so many Catholic churches) and features a dark, wide interior. The rich interior includes decorative side altars, paintings and a crypt.
#2 Basilica di Santa Croce
{MAP} The ornate exterior of the Basilica di Santa Croce is the epitome of the Leccese Baroque style. The design was created by architects Gabriele Riccardi, Francesco Antonio Zimbalo, Cesare Penna and Giuseppe Zimbalo over a period of three generations.
Built on the site of a previous church, construction commenced on the Santa Croce Church in 1549. The interior is decorated with 2 rows of simple columns and elaborate chandeliers. The vaulted wooden ceiling hosts a painting and features golden detailing.
#3 Chiesa del Gesu
{MAP} Building commenced on Chiesa del Gesu in 1575, shortly after the Jesuits arrived in Lecce. By 1577, the church was already open for services, although construction continued for decades.
The interior is sumptuously decorated with both carvings and historic artwork.
#4 Chiesa di Sant’Irene
{MAP} Chiesa di Sant’Irene was built by Francesco Grimaldi from 1591-1639. The church was dedicated to Saint Irene – the Patron Saint of Lecce at the time. The Lecce coat of arms is displayed high above the door.
Although the main altar is rather simple, the interior is enhanced with Baroque style side altars.
#5 Chiesa di Santa Chiara
{MAP} The Chiesa di Santa Chiara church was built in 1687 by Giuseppe Cino (although now this is being disputed). The church sits in place of a previous 15th century religious site.
While the unusual façade is intriguing, the interior is extravagant – from the extensively embellished side altars to the beautiful wooden ceiling.
#6 Chiesa di San Matteo
{MAP} Dedicated to Matthew the Apostle, the Chiesa di San Matteo church was built by Achille Larducci between 1667 and 1700. The church, which was built on the site of a previous 15th century church, appears to be wedged into too small of a space.
The unique curved façade is the distinctive trait of San Matteo Church. While the exterior is of the Borromini style, interior altars are extensively decorated…in the Baroque style, of course.
#7 Chiesa di Santa Maria di Constantinopoli (or Chiesa di Sant’Angelo)
{MAP} Chiesa di Santa Maria di Constantinopoli was built by Giuseppe Zimbalo in 1663 as the convent of the Augustinians. The top of the façade was never completed. The phrase across the top of the lower portion roughly translates to: Mother of Constantinople from the beginning, dedicated and rebuilt 1663.
#8 Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista (or Basilica del Rosario)
{MAP} Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista was built on a previous church site dating back to 1388. Architect Giuseppe Zimbalo, then in his 70s, started new construction in 1691. He died in 1710 before it was finished, but the work was carried out in his style and completed in 1728.
The interior is just as extravagant as the exterior. The ornately designed main altar is carved from local stone and there are 12 additional altars in the church. It was designated a Basilica by Pope Pius XII in 1948.
#9 Chiesa di Santa Maria della Pace
{MAP} In comparison to most churches in Lecce, Chiesa di Santa Maria della Pace is rather plain, both inside and out. It was built between 1738 and 1742 by Mauro Manieri. We had the opportunity to visit the inside when a local Lecce artist was using the space as an art gallery.
#10 Chiesa di Santa Maria della Porta
{MAP} Rebuilt between 1852 and 1858 by Giuseppe Maialo da Maddaloni, the Chiesa di Santa Maria della Porta is in the shape of an octagon and has a plain, neo-classical façade.
However, it’s the original chapel that has an intriguing story. In 1567, the chapel stood outside the city walls and displayed a picture of the Virgin Mary. When a crippled woman looked at the image, she was suddenly able to walk again. Considered a miracle, it was determined that the church should be expanded and included within the city walls.
#11 Chiesa dei SS Nicolo e Cataldo
{MAP} Chiesa dei SS Nicolo e Cataldo was built by the Count of Lecce, Tancredi, in 1180. It was subsequently reconstructed over the years. A unique blend of cultural influences can be identified, including the Islamic dome and Medieval inscriptions. The Olivetans (Order of our Lady of Mount Olivet) occupied the church from the 1500s until 1807.
During that time, statues were added to the exterior – specifically that of San Nicola. Next door, visitors can wander through an interesting and beautiful cemetery.
#12 Chiesa di Santa Maria Degli Angeli (or San Francesco di Paola)
{MAP} Built in the middle of the 16th century, Chiesa di Santa Maria Degli Angeli has undergone massive changes every century since.
While the outside is quite plain, the inside of this Lecce church is decorated with columns and hosts an array of fine paintings.
#13 Chiesa e Monastero di San Giovanni Evangelista
{MAP} The original convent and church, Chiesa e Monastero di San Giovanni Evangelista, were built in 1133 for Benedictine nuns. However, the church was completely rebuilt in 1607, with the addition of the clock in 1923.
#14 Chiesa di San Sebastiano
{MAP} The quaint Chiesa di San Sebastiano (located near the side entrance to the Lecce Duomo Cathedral) is barely recognizable as a church except for the small cross on top. It was built in 1520 with donations received during the plague.
Map of Lecce Churches
Use this link to Google Maps to route yourself to all the Best Churches in Lecce, Italy!
Walking Route to 14 Churches in Lecce, Italy
Use this route to see all 14 Lecce churches. The self-guided walking tour is about 3 miles long and should take around 2-3 hours (depending on how long you spend inside each church).
The Self-Guided Walking Tour to Lecce Churches does not follow the same order of the churches listed above. The route passes the churches in this order:
- Duomo Cathedral (#1)
- Church of Saint Irene (#4)
- Church of Saint Claire (#5)
- Church of Saint Matthew (#6)
- Church of San Sebastian (#14)
- Church of Saint John the Baptist (#8)
- Church of Saint Mary della Pace (#9)
- Church of Saint Mary della Porta (#10)
- Churches of Saints Nicolo and Cataldo (#11)
- Church of Saint Maria Degli Angeli (#12)
- Church of Saint Mary of Constantinopoli (#7)
- Church of Saint John Benedictine Monastery (#13)
- Church of Jesus (#3)
- Basilica di Santa Croce (#2)
Click here for the route in Google Maps. NOTE: Not all churches are included in the link (excluded are San Sebastiano, Santa Maria della Pace, Santa Maria di Constantinopoli and Gesu) but the walking route passes by these churches.
Looking for more Lecce, Italy travel tips? Get our recommendations for top Lecce Restaurants, fun Bars in Lecce along with our complete guide to the Best Things To Do in Lecce, Italy!
What To Pack for Lecce, Italy
When navigating the streets to the best Lecce churches, don’t forget to pack these things!
Appropriate Attire
When visiting the churches, it is important to wear appropriate attire (dress modestly). Also, wear comfortable city walking shoes (like these, by Columbia).
Travel Camera and Day Pack
The churches in Lecce are stunningly beautiful! Be sure to bring your camera to capture the sights! We use a Canon Rebel with an 18-135mm lens that takes wonderful photos, but also carry a Canon Powershot that is lightweight budget camera and fits into a pocket. And whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase, you’ll also want a Day Bag to carry your items in!
Italy Travel Insurance
If you haven’t already purchased Trip Insurance, consider rates and coverage at World Nomads.
Start planning your trip to Italy! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides page!
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