The Jewish Museum, Lecce

The tour starts with an external visit to the majestic Santa Croce Church, the jewel in the crown of Lecce’s Baroque architecture. From here, explore the nearby Piazza Sant’Oronzo, the former market square where you can find the Old Town Hall, the Roman Column, and the remains of a huge Roman amphitheater. Continue the tour with a walk through Corso Vittorio Emanuele, which boasts stunning Baroque palaces and the recently restored Sant’Irene Church. Arrive at the breathtaking Piazza Duomo next, one of the most critically praised architectural ensembles in Italy. Admire the exteriors of the Archbishop’s Residence, the Seminary, the Bell Tower, and the cathedral. Finally, visit the underground Jewish Museum and discover the town’s fascinating Jewish history.

Baroque Lecce is extremely well known, but the 17th century is just a recent part of a long history for this city. Lecce has been influenced by many ancient and important cultures, including Messapians, Greeks, Byzantines, Normans, French Angevins, and Spanish Aragonese. Begin your journey through the streets and alleys of medieval Lecce, focusing on its Jewish community. Visit Via della Sinagoga, the old path which used to lead to one of the most beautiful synagogues in South Italy. Following that, discover Vico della Saponea alley and walk through Via Abramo Balmes, a street dedicated to one the most important Jewish figures in Lecce. Take a trip back in time by visiting the evocative underground area of the Jewish Museum. The area is situated on the remains of the Synagougue, and includes a mikveh and mezuzah. Learn more about the Jewish community, including why the Jews were forced to leave Lecce.