A beautiful Italian city is known as the Florence of the country’s south, and has fewer tourists than the likes of Venice, and Rome. Joanne Lynn, head of European product at tour operator Riviera Travel, included the sunswept travel destination among seven “hidden gem” spots in Europe to visit this summer.
Lynn included Lecce, in the Apulia region, as choice spot for those looking for “traditional Italy”, as well as Alberobello, and Matera, two towns close enough for a day trip by car. “For an authentic Italian experience, discover a quieter, traditional region of Italy known for its whitewashed hill towns, centuries-old farmland and Mediterranean coastline,” the travel expert said.
“Experience the diverse cuisine of these regions during dinner in local restaurants in Lecce, known as Florence of the South, and Matera.”
Lecce, which has a population of around 100,000, is known for its grand stunning architecture, which has a unique regional style.
Visitors can’t help but be struck by the beauty of the abundant Apulian Baroque architecture, with many buildings “built of the characteristic pietra leccese, a light yellow, easily worked limestone”, says Brittanica.
Its Baroque beauty is what has earned Lecce comparisons to Florence, the capital of Italy’s Tuscany region, though it’s said to be much quieter.
And while Lecce is perhaps best known for these impressive architectural reminders of a period in which the city flourished during the 16th and 17th centuries, it’s also home to a remarkably well preserved Roman amphitheatre in the old town centre which dates back to the second century.
It’s part of the Piazza Sant’Oronzo, one of old centre’s many charming squares, including Piazza del Duomo, where the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta Baroque Cathedral is located.
First built in the 12th century, the awe-inspiring structure features elaborate ornaments and intricate carvings, and is one of the city’s crowning jewels.
And besides the wealth of the historic religious cites, you’ll also find delicious local fare. Among the highlights are “ciceri e tria” – a delicious combination of pasta and chickpeas, and Puccia, a round, thin sandwich made with leavened bread dough with a variety of fillings.
There’s also pasticciotto, a shortcrust pastry shell, filled with custard and black cherry, often topped with icing sugar.