Visit to Palazzo Vernazza

The walk 'into history' begins by leaving the church of San Matteo behind and turning into Via del Palazzo dei Conti di Lecce, one of the streets in the heart of the city that has much to tell with its elegant aristocratic residences and Piazzetta Pellegrino where Palazzo Vernazza stands.

It is no coincidence that the Renaissance palace stands here, since at the time of its construction, this was considered a strategic location, just a few steps away from the Palatium dei Conti di Lecce, which was the symbol of power in the 15th century. Palazzo Vernazza is a palatial house in Lecce stone, built by the Castromediano, barons of Morciano in the 15th century AD, a family of German origin.

Beyond the arch of the entrance portal, you enter a small atrium where your gaze runs upwards to admire the delicate decoration of doors and windows framed by friezes and classical motifs. But its true wealth is not in the heights, nor in the opulence of the rooms. The real treasures are kept in its bowels, in the subterranean levels, where a priceless heritage unfolds, evidence of two thousand years of history, which surfaced in the hands of archaeologists from the University of Salento some twenty years ago.

One of the jewels of this research is the Sanctuary of Isis, in Egyptian mythology goddess of magic, fertility and motherhood. It is from here that the tour begins, leading to the remains of the Purgatorium, the Lapidarium and much more.

Hours: daily except Tuesdays 10am-4pm.

Info: 0832/1827289.

Ticket: 6 euro.