Lecce Cathedral (Duomo di Lecce) Tours
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Lecce is famous for its sumptuous baroque architecture, and the Lecce cathedral (Duomo di Lecce) is one of the most ornate examples. Its magnificently carved and adorned Leccese-stone facade is a 17th-century masterpiece and one of the highlights of this city on Puglia’s Salento peninsula.
The Basics
The original Norman cathedral was built on Piazza del Duomo in the mid-12th century. More than 500 years later, the church was completely reworked in the baroque style and finished by Giuseppe Zimbalo, who had a hand in many of Lecce’s most beautiful churches and palaces, and is now buried beneath the church’s altar, dedicated to the city’s patron saint. The 17th-century Bishop’s Palace and 18th-century Palazzo Seminario and cloister are also located in the square alongside the Duomo, and looming over everything is the 230-foot (70-meter) bell tower.
The city, and the entire surrounding province of Lecce, has some of the loveliest baroque architecture in Europe, and walking tours of the city include stops at the Duomo and other important architectural monuments. For a more in-depth tour of the interior of the cathedral and other buildings on the piazza, opt for a private tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Lecce and its baroque treasures are especially fascinating for architecture buffs.
- Piazza del Duomo is ringed by buildings and has only one entrance, so you cannot walk through the square.
- You must have your shoulders and knees covered to enter the cathedral.
- The Duomo and surrounding square are accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Piazza del Duomo and Lecce Cathedral are about a 3-minute walk from the city’s main Piazza Sant'Oronzo, through a jumble of streets of the old town (centro storico).
When to Get There
Lecce celebrates its three patron saints each year on August 23, 24, and 25. The entire city celebrates with light displays, music, and festivities, so it is an especially memorable time to visit Lecce and its cathedral.
Lecce’s Baroque Masterpieces
In addition to its Duomo, Lecce has a number of other 17th-century architectural treasures in its historic center, including the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Church of Santa Chiara (Chiesa di Santa Chiara).
Address: Piazza del Duomo, Lecce 73100, Italy
3 Tours and Activities to Experience Lecce Cathedral (Duomo di Lecce)
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Lecce and Gallipoli
While in Puglia you cannot miss a visit to Lecce, the baroque capital of the south or Gallipoli, a quaint fishing village on the Ionian Coast. Gallipoli's name comes from the Greek “Kalle Polis”, which literally translates to "beautiful city". In Lecce we will tour the sprawling town center, visit the incredible churches and the Roman amphitheater. In Gallipoli, we will wander through the amazing maze of alleys, visit the Cathedral as well as an underground oil mill dating back to the 14th century. Optional lunch at fantastic fish restaurant Puritate in Gallipoli and/or winetasting at a local winery After lunch we can stop for coffee at one of Gallipoli's amazing beach clubs.
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From
$245.42
Price varies by group size
From
$245.42
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Lecce Shopping and Handicrafts Tour
Lecce is famous for its traditional handicrafts, papier-mâché figures, and artisan products, and this 3-hour shopping tour offers the inside scoop on shopping in the city. Along the way, admire landmarks such as Santa Croce Basilica and the Duomo; shop for souvenirs at luxury boutiques and ateliers; then relax with a traditional Italian aperitivo.
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From
$39.90
From
$39.90
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Lecce Shopping Tour by Rickshaw
Lecce is famous for its traditional handicrafts, papier-mâché figures, and artisan products, and this 3-hour shopping tour offers the inside scoop on shopping in the city. Admire landmarks such as Santa Croce Basilica, Porta Napoli, and Saint Oronzo square on a rickshaw ride; shop for souvenirs at luxury boutiques and ateliers; then relax with a traditional Italian aperitivo.
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From
$58.30
From
$58.30
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
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