Chiesa del Carmine (Carmine Church), Lecce
Carmine Church (Chiesa del Carmine) in Lecce is a beautiful architectural gem. It is part of a complex that includes a Carmelite convent, showcasing the region's rich history and art.
The Carmelites settled in Lecce in 1481 but moved within the city walls after a seismic event in 1546. They chose the church of Saint Nicholas as their new location, which became the foundation for the construction of the Carmine Church we see today.
Construction of the church started in 1711 and was completed in 1737. The facade, crafted by architect Giuseppe Cino, is a standout feature with intricate friezes and decorations. It is divided into three orders, highlighting statues, windows, and mixtilinear friezes. The church's design blends curved outer surfaces with the lines of a Latin cross, creating a unique and visually appealing effect.
Inside, visitors will find stunning nave altars designed by artist Mauro Manieri between 1731 and 1737. These altars showcase painted works of art from the 18th century, including the Annunciation, Saint Elmo, and the Visitation of the Virgin.
The Chiesa del Carmine is a testament to the craftsmanship and religious dedication that shaped Lecce's history. It is a must-visit for those interested in exploring the cultural heritage of the region and appreciating Italian art and architecture.
The Carmelites settled in Lecce in 1481 but moved within the city walls after a seismic event in 1546. They chose the church of Saint Nicholas as their new location, which became the foundation for the construction of the Carmine Church we see today.
Construction of the church started in 1711 and was completed in 1737. The facade, crafted by architect Giuseppe Cino, is a standout feature with intricate friezes and decorations. It is divided into three orders, highlighting statues, windows, and mixtilinear friezes. The church's design blends curved outer surfaces with the lines of a Latin cross, creating a unique and visually appealing effect.
Inside, visitors will find stunning nave altars designed by artist Mauro Manieri between 1731 and 1737. These altars showcase painted works of art from the 18th century, including the Annunciation, Saint Elmo, and the Visitation of the Virgin.
The Chiesa del Carmine is a testament to the craftsmanship and religious dedication that shaped Lecce's history. It is a must-visit for those interested in exploring the cultural heritage of the region and appreciating Italian art and architecture.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Lecce. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Chiesa del Carmine (Carmine Church) on Map
Sight Name: Chiesa del Carmine (Carmine Church)
Sight Location: Lecce, Italy (See walking tours in Lecce)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Lecce, Italy (See walking tours in Lecce)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Lecce, Italy
Create Your Own Walk in Lecce
Creating your own self-guided walk in Lecce is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Lecce Introduction Walking Tour
The beginning of Lecce is a legend. According to the story, a town existed close to the location of today's Lecce, dating from the Trojan Wars. The town was taken by Romans in the 3rd century BC. They called it "Lupiae." The Roman Emperor Hadrian didn't like the location, so he moved it 2 miles to the northeast. Lecce had a theatre and an amphitheater which can be partially... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.1 Km or 1.3 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.1 Km or 1.3 Miles
Lecce's Baroque Churches Walking Tour
Often defined as the “Capital of Baroque” – an artistic trend born in Italy in the 17th century, the town of Lecce has this signature style present in most of the buildings throughout its historic center. Characterized by elaborate facades and the extensive use of local stone known as "pietra leccese", Lecce's Baroque architecture reached its pinnacle in the form of churches,... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles