Porta Napoli
Piazzetta Arco di Trionfo, Lecce, Puglia, 73100
Lecce’s imposing Porta Napoli is a 16th-century triumphal arch that once served as the main entrance into the historic city center. Modeled on triumphal arches from ancient Rome, its neoclassical design is a departure from Lecce’s ornate baroque style, and the soaring marble gate is considered one of the city’s architectural treasures.
The basics
One of three historic entrances built into Lecce’s ancient city walls, Porta Napoli was completed in 1548 after a commission by the Habsburg Emperor Charles V to fortify the city. Because of this funding, Lecce honored the Emperor by decorating the Porta Napoli with the Habsburg family emblem, still visible on the pediment.
Today, Porta Napoli is a stop on many Lecce walking tours that take in the city’s rich architectural heritage, together with its baroque cathedral (Duomo), Basilica di Santa Croce, and Chiesa di Santa Chiara. In addition to its architecture, the city of Lecce is known for its local cuisine and traditional papier-mâché—many sightseeing tours also include food tastings or a papier-mâché workshop.
Things to know before you go
Fans of ancient Roman architecture will be particularly taken with this elegant city gate inspired by the classical style.
There are a number of shaded benches in the square facing the arch, perfect for taking a break from sightseeing on hot days.
The city of Lecce can be scorching in the summer months, so be sure to protect yourself from the sun with a hat and sunscreen if you're joining an outdoor walking tour.
Porta Napoli is surrounded by a vast paved square, making it easily accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to get there
Porta Napoli is located in Lecce’s Piazzetta Arco di Trionfo on the northwestern edge of the historic center; the train station and the city's most famous sights are all an easy walk away. Lecce is the most important rail, bus, and highway hub on Puglia’s Salento Peninsula, though the closest airport and cruise terminal are in Brindisi, 25 miles (40 kilometers) to the north.
When to get there
Porta Napoli doesn’t have open hours and is easy to admire at any time of day. Lecce can get uncomfortably hot during midday in the summer season, so stop by first thing in the morning or in the late afternoon. The arch is lit at night, making it particularly photogenic after sunset.
Lecce’s historic city gates
Lecce has three historic city gates that still stand on the edges of the old town, though the ancient town walls have long disappeared. In addition to Porta Napoli, you can visit the baroque Porta San Biagio and Porta Rudiae, the oldest of the gates, which is topped with a statue of the city’s patron saint, St. Oronzo.
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