Lecce is a land of culture and traditions, but also of ancient beauties and baroque style churches. An ancient city that captivates the heart of those who choose to organize a holiday in Lecce with its beauty.
We list below some of the traditional and popular elements that have made the city known many:
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The Lecce Baroque
The city nicknamed “the Florence of the South“, is famous for the eccentric Baroque, an architectural style that developed in the city in the late 1700s. The word baroque comes from the French word “Baroque” which means whimsical, bizarre.
The basilica of Santa Croce is the concrete and visible representation of the Baroque style in Lecce, starting from the facade you can admire complex representations and eccentric motifs typical of the style.
No less important are the various churches scattered around the city, such as the church of Sant’Irene, the Duomo and the church of Santa Chiara.
The city of Lecce has been declared a city of art thanks to its evident architectural heritage, ranging from the Roman period to the medieval and Renaissance. Walking through the historical streets of Lecce you can see balconies decorated with Lecce stone, carved with the most particular motifs such as ivy or climbing lilies.
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The Taranta
This traditional dance is one of the most heartfelt musical traditions of Salento. The taranta is the expression of the territory in the form of music, it tells of the roots, the history and the popular beauties. The taranta is popular music that captivates from the very first notes!
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Lecce papier-mâché
Statues of Saints, Madonnas, and other representations make the art of modelling with papier-mâché refined, giving added value to the Lecce tradition. Stories of papier-mâché masters who shape with paper, straw, glue and mortar the representations of statues with attention to detail with expressive poses, which give the faces a surreal expressiveness.
The history of Lecce papier-mâché production is documented by the Cartapesta Museum, located in the Castle of Charles V.
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The patronal feast
A heartfelt tradition of the people of Lecce and Salento is the feast of the patron saints, Sant’Oronzo, the most renown and the saints Giusto and Fortunato, who from the top of their pillars watch over and protect the city. During the festivities for the patron saint’s feast, the colours and flavours that emanate from this feast transform Lecce into a magical city with the evocative processions dedicated to the saint and the sumptuous illuminations that embellish Piazza Sant’Oronzo and the narrow streets of the old town centre.
Visiting Lecce is the perfect experience for those who want to choose a holiday among history, popular traditions and culture. Arcadia Luxury Suite will welcome its guests with style and elegance, offering tourist itineraries and excursions during which to discover the history, art and culture of this magical city.