Italy is full of beautiful cities, towns and villages spread throughout its different regions, all boasting their own unique culture and character.
As such the country is a major magnet for visitors from all around the world, with over 57 million tourists travelling there just last year.
The most popular destinations are naturally cities like Rome, Florence and of course, Venice.
These cultural and historical icons, though, are increasingly finding it difficult to absorb the ever-growing numbers of tourists.
Venice has decided to take the controversial step of charing day visitors an entry fee, ranging in price from €3 to €10 depending on circumstances.
However, for those looking to marvel at Italy’s almost unlimited wealth of artistic and architectural treasures but without the non-stop crowds, a town in the county’s south is the place to go.
The city of Lecce is a hidden gem of the Puglia region, and was long an important centre for artists and artisans.
Often referred to as the ‘Florence of the South’, it has a historic centre that rivals any of its more popular and overcrowded competitors.
Though it offers a fascinating study of the Baroque architecture, the old centre has its very own Roman amphitheatre dating back to the second century.
Anfiteatro Romano was hidden for many hundreds of years but was discovered in the early 20th century.
Only half of it was excavated because there’s a building that stands on the other half.
The amphitheatre is part of Piazza Sant’Oronzo, one of old centre’s many charming squares.
Perhaps the most vibrant square is Piazza del Duomo, where the city’s Baroque Cathedral is located.
The cathedral, also known as the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta, features elaborate ornaments and intricate carvings, demonstrating the exquisite craftsmanship of the time.
Maybe one of the most enjoyable things to do is to stroll through streets in the historic centre, deserted for the most part, and soak up the character and atmosphere.
That is certainly the advice of Sonal from India, who visited the city last years.
In her travel blog, she wrote: « Lecce is the perfect city for walking without a purpose and getting lost.
« The streets are stunning and you will find a lot of interesting shops & houses. »
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