Day 2: Santa Croce and Cartapesta

Morning: Head to the Basilica of Santa Croce: its façade is the epitome of Lecce Baroque, so rich in detail—flowers, animals, and mythological figures carved into the soft stone—that it's breathtaking. Visit the adjacent Palazzo dei Celestini.
Lunch: Sit down at a trattoria to enjoy "Ciceri e Tria" (fried pasta with chickpeas), an ancient dish that blends Arab and local culture.
Afternoon: Wander the narrow streets of the historic center ("le giravolte") and visit the workshops of master papier-mâché artists. The art of papier-mâché in Lecce is a very noble tradition; you'll see how sacred statues are created using only paper, glue, and fire.