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Square · Lecce, Apúlia
Piazza del Duomo
An enclosed square, almost a courtyard, surrounded by the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, the 70-meter campanile, the episcopal palace and the former seminary, all in leccese Baroque.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Piazza del Duomo
Piazza del Duomo was for centuries the courtyard of the bishop's citadel, enclosed by walls and gates until the late 19th century. Today you enter through an arch between two twin buildings, the propylea, with statues of the Church Fathers, and the square opens up suddenly.
The cathedral, dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta, was rebuilt between 1659 and 1670 by Giuseppe Zimbalo at the request of Bishop Luigi Pappacoda. Those entering the square first see the lateral façade, the most decorated, with the statue of Sant'Oronzo at the top: it was designed to impress arrivals. Inside, the carved wooden ceiling from 1685 frames paintings on the life of the patron saint.
Beside the cathedral rises the campanile, also by Zimbalo, built between 1661 and 1682, about 70 meters tall with five levels. From the top you can see the Adriatic Sea. At the back of the square are the palazzo episcopal, with arcades and a staircase, and the former seminary, with a cloister and the museum of sacred art.
The cathedral, campanile, seminary and museum are part of the Baroque churches circuit of Lecce, with a single ticket that also includes the churches of San Matteo and Santa Chiara, both a few blocks away. San Matteo has a curved façade—convex below and concave above—inspired by Borromini.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1h30 for the cathedral, the campanile and the seminary. The square itself can be seen in a few minutes.
Best time
In the morning to climb the campanile with good light. At night, the illuminated square is one of Lecce's most peaceful activities. During masses, tourist visits to the cathedral are suspended.
How to get there
It lies between Via Vittorio Emanuele II and Via Libertini, about 300 meters on foot from Piazza Sant'Oronzo.
Tip
Buy the single ticket at the first church: it is valid for the entire circuit for several days. The ascent to the campanile may have a limit on the number of people at a time; check before you go. Shoulders and knees must be covered in the cathedral.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Piazza del Duomo
Can you climb the bell tower?
Yes, the climb is part of the baroque churches circuit. The bell tower is about 70 metres high and offers views of the Adriatic Sea.
Why does the cathedral's main façade appear to be the side?
Because the more decorated façade, facing the entrance to the square, was created to welcome arrivals. The main façade, simpler, sits beside the bishop's palace.
What else does the single ticket include?
The seminary with the sacred art museum, the chapel of San Gregorio and the churches of San Matteo, Santa Chiara and Santa Croce.
Is it worth returning at night?
Yes, the illuminated square is quite different and is usually quieter.