Lecce and Bari

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Points of interest in Lecce and Bari

Lecce:

• Piazza del Duomo: The main square of Lecce, surrounded by important landmarks such as the Lecce Cathedral (Duomo di Lecce), the Campanile (bell tower), and the Bishop's Palace.

• Basilica di Santa Croce: A stunning Baroque church known for its intricately decorated façade featuring a plethora of sculptures and ornate details.

• Roman Amphitheatre: An ancient Roman amphitheater dating back to the 2nd century AD, located near the Sant'Oronzo Square.

• Piazza Sant'Oronzo: A lively square named after the city's patron saint, featuring a Roman column with a statue of Saint Oronzo and the Sedile, a historical building used for public gatherings.

• Lecce Castle (Castello di Lecce): A medieval fortress with a pentagonal layout, originally built in the 12th century and later renovated in the 16th century.

• Palazzo dei Celestini: A former convent complex now used as a cultural center, featuring beautiful Baroque architecture and hosting various exhibitions and events.

• Church of Santa Maria della Grazia: A charming church with a Baroque façade and a richly decorated interior, located near the Porta Napoli gate.

• Lecce's Baroque Architecture: Wander through the streets of Lecce to admire its splendid Baroque architecture, characterized by intricate carvings, ornate balconies, and golden stone known as "Lecce stone."

• Lecce's Underground: Explore the fascinating underground tunnels and chambers beneath the city, which were originally used for various purposes including storage, cisterns, and as shelters.

• Roman Theatre: Although largely underground and not fully excavated, remnants of a Roman theatre can be seen near the Sant'Oronzo Square, offering insight into Lecce's ancient past.

Bari:

• Basilica of San Nicola: A significant pilgrimage site and one of Bari's most famous landmarks, housing the relics of Saint Nicholas and featuring stunning Romanesque architecture.

• Bari Vecchia (Old Town): Wander through the narrow streets of Bari Vecchia to discover charming squares, historic buildings, and local artisans' workshops.

• Castello Svevo (Swabian Castle): A medieval fortress located in the heart of Bari, offering panoramic views of the city and the Adriatic Sea from its ramparts.

• Bari Cathedral (Basilica di San Sabino): An impressive Romanesque-style cathedral dedicated to Saint Sabinus, featuring a beautiful façade and a crypt dating back to the 11th century.

• Piazza del Ferrarese: A bustling square lined with cafes and restaurants, perfect for enjoying a traditional Apulian meal or a leisurely stroll.

• Piazza Mercantile: Another lively square in Bari Vecchia, surrounded by historic buildings and bustling with activity, especially during the evening hours.

• Pane e Pomodoro Beach: A popular beach located near the city center, offering golden sand and crystal-clear waters for swimming and sunbathing during the warmer months.

• Teatro Petruzzelli: One of Italy's largest opera houses and a prominent cultural venue in Bari, known for its stunning architecture and diverse program of performances.

• Bari's Waterfront Promenade (Lungomare Nazario Sauro): Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque waterfront promenade, lined with palm trees, cafes, and views of the Adriatic Sea.

• Museo Archeologico di Santa Scolastica: A museum housed in a former Benedictine monastery, featuring a diverse collection of archaeological artifacts spanning various periods of history in the region.