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Site of an ancient Messapian and then Roman town, 3 km south from the city center. Here you can see the remains of an amphitheatre, a necropolis and walls.
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The oldest gate of the town, rebuilt in 1703 in baroque style.
Basilica di San Giovanni Battista
A magnificent façade characterised by two grooved columns, completed in 1728. It is just few steps away from Porta Rudiae.
Museo provinciale archeologico Sigismondo Castromediano
The oldest museum in Puglia, with an impressive collection of old Greek and Roman pottery and other artifacts. It exhibits artefacts excavated from the sea and has a small illuminated aquarium with fish and old vessels excavated from the bottom of the sea. You can also see two Venetian polyptychs of the 14th century. Hosts exhibitions of modern artists of Salento. The museum is on two floors, accessible to people with reduced mobility. Entry is free of charge (2024) because the museum is owned by the Province of Lecce.
Duomo di Lecce
On the South side of Piazza del Duomo, the cathedral (Duomo) is a wonderful example of baroque style. Most of the cathedral was designed by Giuseppe Zimbalo and it was completed in 1689. Separate from the cathedral on the east side of the piazza is the duomo bell tower. Ride the lift up 43 metres for spectacular 360° views.
Teatro romano
In the heart of the old town, it was built in the 1st century AD and it had a capacity of 5,000 people. It is now seat of events and performances.
The southern entrance to the old town, dedicated to Saint Blaise. It is 17 m (55 ft) tall and it's topped by the coat of arms of Ferdinand I of the Two Sicilies.