Explore the Carlo V Castle in Lecce with this guide

What is the Castle of Lecce?

The Castle of Lecce, also known as Carlo V Castle, is a large Renaissance fortress located in the heart of the city. It was named after Emperor Charles V of Habsburg and was built starting from a pre-existing medieval castle, expanded and transformed in the 16th century. Today, it is one of the most visited monuments in the city, a landmark for tourists and history enthusiasts.

Where is Carlo V Castle located?

The Castle is located in the city center, next to Piazza Sant’Oronzo and near Porta San Biagio. It is easily reachable on foot if you are already in the historic center. Its strategic position makes it one of the first stops to include in a tourist itinerary in Lecce.

How to get to Carlo V Castle?

By car: if you arrive in Lecce by car, you should know that circulation in the historic center is limited (ZTL). It is not possible to park directly in front of the castle. The most convenient parking areas are located on Viale dell’Università and in Piazzale Carmelo Bene (station area). From there, you can reach the castle on foot in about 10-15 minutes.

By train: from Lecce train station, you can reach the castle with a 15-minute walk along Viale Oronzo Quarta and then Via XXV Luglio.

By urban bus: many lines stop at Piazza Sant’Oronzo or in the immediate vicinity, less than 5 minutes on foot from the castle.

Are there parking issues near the Castle of Lecce?

Yes, finding parking near the historic center can be complicated, especially in high season. To avoid difficulties, it is advisable to leave the car in guarded parking lots or paid parking areas outside the ZTL, such as Foro Boario or Parcheggio Ex Carlo Pranzo, and then reach the castle on foot.

How is Carlo V Castle structured?

The castle has a quadrangular plan, with a central courtyard around which the various environments develop. It is surrounded by massive Renaissance walls with lanceolate bastions and a moat that is partially still visible. Inside, there are medieval spaces, Renaissance areas, and underground environments that tell centuries of history.

What are the most interesting parts of the Castle?

During the visit, you can see: The Torre Magistra, which towers over the medieval quadrilateral. The Renaissance and medieval rooms, including the room dedicated to Maria d’Enghien, Countess of Lecce who governed the city between the 14th and 15th centuries. The Museum of Paper Mache, with sacred works made with this technique typical of Salento. The underground prisons, where Giangiacomo dell’Acaya, the architect who designed the castle's expansion, was imprisoned. The galleries in the medieval moat and the walkways on the bastions, which offer a suggestive view.

Who was Giangiacomo dell’Acaya?

Giangiacomo dell’Acaya was a famous Renaissance military architect. He transformed the medieval castle into a modern Italian fortress, with bastions and moats suitable for the defensive needs of the 16th century. Ironically, after years he was imprisoned in the very underground cells of the castle that he had designed.

What can be seen in the central courtyard?

In the courtyard, there are archaeological remains of the oldest structures. Thanks to recent excavations, it is possible to observe traces of the medieval fortification incorporated into the Renaissance restructuring. It is a space that directly tells the story of Lecce's transition from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance.

What does the Museum of Paper Mache host?

On the ground floor of the castle, there is the Museum of Paper Mache, an exhibition dedicated to a craft tradition deeply rooted in Salento. Here, sacred sculptures made with paper mache, a lightweight but durable material, are collected, used mainly for religious statues and decorations of Baroque churches.

Who was Maria d’Enghien and why is there a room dedicated to her?

Maria d’Enghien was Countess of Lecce and Queen of Naples, one of the most important female figures in Salento's history. She governed the city for a long time between the late 14th century and the mid-15th century. The most majestic room of the castle is dedicated to her, a space that still impresses today for its size and grandeur.

Can the prisons of Carlo V Castle be visited?

Yes, the castle's underground includes the ancient prisons, suggestive environments rich in history. It was here that Giangiacomo dell’Acaya was imprisoned. Visiting these areas is highly appreciated by tourists as it offers a direct contact with the life and events of the fortress.

What are the walkways of the Castle of Lecce?

They are paths that develop along the bastions and allow you to observe the defensive structure as a whole. Walking on these passages offers a panoramic perspective and helps to understand the strategic importance of the fortress.

How long does the visit to Carlo V Castle last?

The complete visit lasts about 1-2 hours, depending on the time spent in the internal rooms, the museum, and the underground areas. It is advisable to take at least an hour and a half to appreciate all sections.

Is Carlo V Castle suitable for families and tourist groups?

Yes, the route is suitable for everyone. The spacious and well-organized areas make the visit comfortable even for families with children and for groups. The multimedia explanations and exhibitions enrich the experience in a simple and engaging way.

Why visit Carlo V Castle during a trip to Lecce?

Because it is one of the best-preserved Renaissance fortresses in Southern Italy, tells centuries of history, and houses unique works of art. It is a monument that combines military function, art, and culture, and is easily accessible from the historic center of Lecce.