Best of Lecce Private Walking Tour - History, Tradition, Anecdotes

Our best tour guides will accompany you on a passionate tour of the historic center, rich in history, traditions, anecdotes, and culinary experiences. This walking tour will introduce you to the papier-mâché tradition with a visit to a local craft workshop. The visit begins at the Piazza del Duomo, where you will learn more about history by passing by the Church of Santa Irene built between 1591 and 1639 for the Theatines and dedicated to the city's patron saint. The walk continues to the Piazza Sant'Oronzo, the largest square within the city walls, the attractive center of Lecce, and the site where the ruins of the Roman amphitheater are located. The visit continues towards the Baroque-style Church of Santa Croce, finished in 1695. The church has a richly decorated façade with six smooth columns supporting an entablature, with animals, grotesque figures, and vegetables, and has a large rose window. Don't miss the Celestini Palace, which was built during different historical periods, the oldest part in the first half of the 14th century. Visit the Church of Santa Chiara, a very famous and admired church in Lecce for its Baroque style and its 18th-century papier-mâché and wood ceiling. And how not to visit the Roman Theater in the heart of Lecce, built in the 2nd century AD, forgotten for a long time, covered by gardens and palaces. A true historical and cultural jewel in the heart of the city. The Church of San Matteo, one of the most beautiful known by the locals as Santa Maria della Luce, stands out for its Baroque style and architecture. Touring the history of Lecce, the guide will lead us to the southernmost of the three gates of the historic center of Lecce, dedicated to Saint Blaise, bishop of Sebaste in Armenia in the 4th century. It is located near the Piazza d'Italia. Finally, we will enjoy a guided tasting of Extra Virgin Olive Oil with «tarallini».