Porta Napoli
A triumphal-arch-style city gate built in 1548 to welcome Charles V. It is the main gate at the northwest of Lecce's old town, with an obelisk outside.
Porta Napoli is named for facing the direction of Naples. Built in 1548 in the style of ancient Roman triumphal arches to commemorate Charles V, it bears the emperor's double-headed eagle coat of arms on its lintel. Standing about 20 metres tall, it is the most magnificent of Lecce's three surviving historic city gates. Outside, a small square holds an obelisk erected in 1822 to commemorate King Ferdinand I. Visitors entering the old town from the train station or outside car parks often start here, and passing through the gate along Via Palmieri leads to the Cathedral Square. Free admission.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Lecce Old Town
- Basilica of Santa Croce
- Lecce Cathedral & Piazza del Duomo
- Roman Amphitheatre & Piazza Sant'Oronzo
- Castle of Charles V
- Museo Faggiano
- Basilica of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria, Galatina
- Nardò