Lecce, the "Florence of the South", is the Apulian town rich in artistic works.
Do you want to treat yourself to a weekend based on art and the sea without spending an arm and a leg? Lecce is the right destination. Not only for the beautiful old town full of Baroque buildings. But also because, according to a survey by a website dedicated to rental accommodation, the Salento town was among the cheapest destinations in Italy, especially for group travel.
Last year Lecce was among the most popular destinations in the South, after Naples.
For a holiday that combines culture and sea, the ideal destination is Lecce
About ten kilometers from the Adriatic coast and about twenty from the Ionian coast, the Apulian city is an ideal base for enjoying a holiday that combines culture and sea.
The nickname of "Florence of the South", in fact, speaks volumes about its artistic wealth, present in the historic center, which can be accessed through Porta Napoli.
Mandatory stops: Piazza Duomo with the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the Bell Tower and the Episcopio, residence of the Lecce bishop, Piazza Sant'Oronzo with the splendid church of Santa Maria delle Grazie.
These, like other buildings in Lecce stone, are a riot of spiers, portals and decorations.
Also in Piazza Sant'Oronzo there is the Roman Amphitheater, not yet completely brought to light by excavations. In the alleys of the historic center there are craft shops and restaurants where you can taste the excellent local gastronomy.
Clear waters and dream views
It is difficult to establish, between the locations of the Ionian coast and those of the Adriatic coast of Salento, which have the most beautiful beaches. All offer a crystal clear sea.
Starting from Lecce, the heart of the Salento peninsula, you will be spoiled for choice. For example: on the Ionian shore, Punta Prosciutto and the Green Bay of Gallipoli, on the Adriatic Torre dell'Orso and Otranto. On the heel there is the suggestive Santa Maria di Leuca, which represents an imaginary watershed between the two seas.
There are many goodies at the table
Fish dishes aside, given the proximity to the sea, the Lecce menus are based on first farmers, such as sagne. They are special pappardelle served with fresh tomatoes. They are also a typical dish ciceri and tria, pasta and chickpeas.
But the lion's share here on the table is made by the Typical Italian cake with custard cream filling, a shortcrust pastry filled with custard and, sometimes, also with jam. It is preferably eaten fresh from the oven, braving the summer heat. But it's worth it!
