About
Porta Napoli, also known as the Naples Gate, is a triumphal arch in Lecce, the city in the Apulia region of southern Italy. It stands on the Viale di Porta Napoli, at the edge of the historic centre, and marks one of the old entrances to the city.
What you will see
Built in 1548 to honour Emperor Charles V, the monument was designed as a ceremonial gateway. Its architecture blends Renaissance and early Baroque elements, so the visitor can read both styles in the same structure. It is a fitting first stop for anyone interested in how Lecce's stone-built architecture developed over the centuries.
Why it makes a visit
- It is a short, easy stop, best taken on foot as you approach the historic centre.
- It suits visitors interested in Renaissance and Baroque architecture, and in the way the city was entered and presented to travellers.
- It sits within walking distance of the old town, where the city's churches, palazzi and squares are concentrated.
Planning your visit
Porta Napoli is an outdoor monument, so a visit is mainly about looking closely at the arch and its details, and taking time to picture the city's gates in their original role. Combine it with a walk through the surrounding streets to see how the historic centre opens up beyond it.
