The Basilica of Santa Croce, located in the old town in Via Umberto I, is the finest expression of Lecce Baroque, the decorative style that invaded Lecce and other Salento towns in the late 16th and early 18th centuries. This masterpiece was created by highly skilled craftsmen who worked the gentle Lecce stone, so easy to work that it looks like embroidery thread. Its beauty lies in its unique, refined and precious Baroque façade!
Dating back to 1548, the Basilica of Santa Croce has a Latin cross plan with five naves. In the 18th century, the outer ones were incorporated into the seven chapels on either side. The vaults and aisles are supported by two rows of columns. The 12 supporting columns represent the apostles, as specified by the Council of Trent. The capitals are Corinthian, although the typical acanthus leaf is replaced by fruit, flower, angel and bird decorations.