Chiesa di San Matteo, Lecce

Church in Lecce

Chiesa di San Matteo a Lecce
Chiesa di San Matteo a Lecce
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Fabrizio Garrisi

The Chiesa di San Matteo is one of the top attractions in Lecce for travellers who appreciate Baroque architecture and the city's famous pietra leccese stonework. Tucked into the winding streets of the historic centre, the church stands out for its dramatic façade-a bold interplay of convex and concave curves that marks a true turning point in Lecce's architectural style. It is a great place to visit on a walking tour of Lecce, offering an intimate, atmospheric experience away from the busier monuments.

Completed in the late 17th century, San Matteo is dedicated to Saint Matthew and is deeply connected to Lecce’s spiritual and artistic identity. Its sculptural forms, rich altars, and elliptical interior create a captivating space that has charmed visitors for centuries.

History and Significance of the Chiesa di San Matteo

Construction of the Chiesa di San Matteo began in 1667 and continued into the early 18th century, during Lecce's most prolific Baroque period. The church stands on the site of an older structure belonging to a Franciscan female community, whose convent once occupied this corner of the neighbourhood.

The design is attributed to Achille Larducci, though the building also reflects the influence of local Baroque masters. The façade is San Matteo's most iconic feature: a daring blend of concave and convex volumes that creates a sense of movement-an innovation that predates similar effects in Rome. This gives the church its reputation as Lecce's most “Roman” Baroque façade.

Inside, the church contains works by important artists from the region. Its elliptical plan and harmonious flow of space reflect the Baroque aim to guide the visitor’s eye and spirit toward the divine.

Things to See and Do in the Chiesa di San Matteo

The façade is the first highlight visitors encounter. Its sweeping curves, sculpted pilasters, and elegant portal create a dynamic sense of tension and release, a hallmark of Baroque architecture. Atop the façade stand statues of Saint Matthew and other figures that complete the vertical rhythm of the design.

Inside, the church’s oval layout feels intimate and balanced. The interior is adorned with finely carved altars, including one dedicated to Saint Matthew, and several side chapels decorated with stucco, paintings, and sculptural details that reveal the virtuosity of Lecce’s artisans.

The church’s pietra leccese stone glows warm and honey-coloured in the natural light, making it a rewarding stop for photography. Visitors often comment on the harmonious atmosphere-a soothing contrast to the bustling streets outside.

How to Get to the Chiesa di San Matteo

The church is located in Lecce's historic centre, a short walk from Piazza Sant'Oronzo and other major monuments. The nearest airport is Brindisi Airport, with regular bus and shuttle connections to Lecce. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Lecce on Booking.com.

Lecce's main railway station is well connected to Bari, Brindisi, and other cities in Apulia. From the station, the church is reachable on foot through the old town or by a short local bus ride. Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy.

For visitors arriving by car, parking is available outside the historic centre since the old town is closed to most traffic. From the parking areas, you can reach the church by foot. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Chiesa di San Matteo

  • Suggested tips: Take a moment to admire the façade from different angles to appreciate its dynamic curves.
  • Best time to visit: Late morning when natural light enhances the pietra leccese interior.
  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: Hours vary; typically open during the day except for midday closures.
  • Official website: Check Lecce tourism listings for updated times.
  • How long to spend: 20-30 minutes.
  • Accessibility: Steps at the entrance and uneven pavements nearby may be challenging.
  • Facilities: Limited; cafés and shops nearby.
  • Photography tip: Capture the façade from the side to emphasise its concave-convex dance of forms.
  • Guided tours: Often included in Baroque architecture tours of Lecce.
  • Nearby food options: Several trattorias and cafés in the surrounding lanes.

Where to Stay close to the Chiesa di San Matteo

For an elegant stay near Lecce’s main monuments, Risorgimento Resort offers luxury accommodation. A boutique experience awaits at Patria Palace Hotel, close to Santa Croce. Travellers seeking tranquillity and design may prefer La Fiermontina, an art-filled retreat within walking distance of the church.

Is the Chiesa di San Matteo Worth Visiting?

Yes. The Chiesa di San Matteo is one of the must-see places in Lecce for its uniquely curved façade, refined Baroque details, and calming interior design. It offers a quieter yet deeply rewarding architectural experience that enriches any visit to the city.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.6 (827)

Church of Santa Chiara, on Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II in Lecce, is a small Baroque Catholic church noted for richly decorated interiors, ornate sculptures, refined stucco work and a striking altar; visitors praise its peaceful atmosphere, detailed exterior façade and the unusual wooden-looking ceiling, and many recommend accessing it via a combined ticket that includes several churches and a museum to get better value while exploring the old town.

Simon Round
2 months ago
"Nice to visit and see the fake wooden ceiling. The best value is the 11€ ticket that gets you into the Basilica (7€ just for this), Cathedral and 2other churches (this one) as well. Now that is worth it and it is like a treasure hunt by following the map and getting you around the old city...."
wouter vandenabeele
5 months ago
"Beautiful baroque church in the heart of Lecce. The Chiesa di Santa Chiara is definitely worth a visit if you’re exploring the old town. It’s a smallbut striking church with rich baroque details, elegant stonework, and a peaceful interior that offers a moment of quiet in the bustling city. At first, it might seem like you have to pay €11 to enter — but don’t worry that price refers to a combined ticket for four churches and a museum in Lecce, so that is cheap. There isn’t a lot of information inside, so a little research beforehand or a quick guide app can help you appreciate what you’re seeing — like the unique wooden ceiling and the refined stucco work. Definitely a beautiful stop for those who enjoy architecture, history, or simply quiet spiritual spaces...."
Gal Primack Najari
10 months ago
"very very beautiful basilica it’s part of the five basilica travel you can make in the cities it’s really worth it very very beautiful"

FAQs for Visiting the Chiesa di San Matteo

Its unusual concave-convex design, a rare and early example in Southern Italy.
Yes, admission is free.
Construction began in 1667 and continued into the 18th century.
About 20-30 minutes to fully appreciate its features.

Nearby Attractions to the Chiesa di San Matteo

The Chiesa di San Matteo appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Lecce!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Address: Chiesa di San Matteo, Via dei Perroni, Lecce, Province of Lecce, Italy
Lecce: 0 km

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