Specchia​

Latest page update: 2 March 2025
By Dion Protani
​​The town of Specchia is situated within the Province of Lecce and has a population of around 4,500 residents.

It stands at an elevation of 131 metres above sea level and is included in the list of Borghi Più Belli d'Italia (most beautiful villages in Italy). Places of interest nearby include Presicce, Tricase, Marina Serra, Tricase Porto and Ugento. 
Related links
Specchia • Puglia • Salento • Historic Town
Specchia is a small, picturesque town located in the southern part of Puglia, within the Province of Lecce. Situated in the heart of the Salento region, it is surrounded by lush olive groves and agricultural fields, offering a peaceful rural atmosphere. The town is known for its medieval charm, with narrow cobblestone streets, traditional stone houses, and impressive architecture. Specchia has been recognised as one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, with its well-preserved historical centre and welcoming ambiance.

Visitors to Specchia can wander through its quaint streets, where landmarks such as the Church of Santa Maria di Costantinopoli and the Palazzo Risolo stand as symbols of the town's long history. The town’s town square is a lively hub, with local cafes and restaurants where visitors can enjoy regional Puglian cuisine, including fresh olive oil, cheeses, and local wines. The surrounding countryside offers many opportunities for walking and cycling, providing scenic views of the Salento landscape.

Specchia is conveniently located for exploring nearby destinations. To the south, the town of Santa Maria di Leuca offers beautiful coastal views, as well as historical sites such as its lighthouse and the Sanctuary of Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae. To the west, the town of Gallipoli provides both a historic old town on an island and access to sandy beaches along the Ionian Sea. To the north, Lecce, known for its Baroque architecture and rich cultural heritage, is just a short drive away, offering visitors a vibrant and artistic city to explore. Additionally, the coastal town of Otranto, famous for its cathedral and coastal beauty, is easily accessible from Specchia.​
Highlights and nearby attractions
  • Historical Centre: Stroll through Specchia's historical centre, characterized by its narrow alleyways, whitewashed houses, and historical buildings that evoke a sense of old-world charm.
  • Piazza del Popolo: Visit the main square, Piazza del Popolo, where you can enjoy a leisurely coffee, people-watch, and take in the ambiance of the town.
  • Palazzo Risolo: Explore Palazzo Risolo, an impressive historical palace that now houses the town hall. The palace's architecture reflects the grandeur of the past.
  • Chiesa Matrice di San Pietro: Discover the Church of San Pietro, a beautiful example of Puglian Baroque architecture. The interior is adorned with ornate details and religious artwork.
  • Historical Architecture: Specchia boasts a wealth of historical architecture, including ancient gates, arches, and towers that transport you back in time.
  • Local Crafts: Explore artisan shops to find traditional crafts and products, such as ceramics, textiles, and handcrafted items that showcase local craftsmanship.
  • Local Cuisine: Indulge in Puglian cuisine at local restaurants and trattorias. Sample dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients, olive oil, and regional flavours.
  • Festivals and Events: Experience the local culture through festivals, events, and celebrations that bring the town's traditions to life.
  • Accommodation: Specchia offers charming accommodations, including bed and breakfasts and guesthouses that offer a comfortable stay.
Comune di Specchia
Province: Lecce

Region: Puglia

Population: 4,545 (in 2024 - source)

​​Size: 25 km²

Elevation: 131 metres

​Close by: Presicce, Tricase, Marina Serra, Tricase Porto, Ugento

Recommended accommodation: I Mulicchi
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)

Listing headline: Riflessi di Salento (Reflections of the Salento)

Specchia​​  Gallery

    Private  Transfer  Request

    WE OFFER PRIVATE TRANSFERS ACROSS THE WHOLE OF ITALY!
    To request the price and availability of any transfer route in Italy please use the form below or contact us via the [email protected] mailbox. Make sure you've included details such as the name of the hotel, name of the town/city or which airport/train station where relevant. Our English booking team will get back to you ASAP to assist with your enquiry.

SITE SEARCH

If you want to find a page quickly and you're not sure where to look you can use the Site Search box below and it'll point you in the right direction. 

YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO ITALY

Italy Review is an independent guide to Italy, showcasing the very best that the country has to offer. Throughout the four thousand pages of the website you'll find comprehensive tourist information, opinion and original photos.

​Alongside the major tourist destinations that you've already heard of, there are thousands of others that may come as a surprise with the intention of the website to provide inspiration for your future trips to the country. 

The photos and descriptions on the website are all my own work and are the fruit of my extensive travels around the country. I've visited every place that's listed on the website which means I'm able to give useful advice for first-time visitors. 

​You can keep in touch with the latest developments in Italy via my Italy Review Blog or via  the Facebook and Instagram pages. 

If you'd just like to start your exploration of Italy with some ideas of places to go then I'd recommend starting at the highlighted must see Italy page.  Or using the grid to your right you can click a photo to enter  the main menus.                 
Booking.com

THE ITALY REVIEW NETWORK SISTER SITES:

​All photos and images on the site that are marked with the © copyright symbol or with the Italy Review series logos are the property of Italy Review and must not be used elsewhere without prior permission. All written content on the website is also the property of Italy Review and its use is strictly limited to this website alone.