Curated Journeys
The Archive holds an extraordinarily rich heritage that tells the story of the city in many different ways. To make exploring this history easier, three pathways have been created. These are not just thematic selections, but true journeys of discovery.
Their aim is to show how different documents are closely connected, and how — through these connections — surprising insights emerge that help us better understand Lecce today.
The history of the civic archive from its beginnings
A journey to the origins of the Municipal Historical Archive of Lecce, founded in 1897 thanks to the vision of Giuseppe Pellegrino and the dedication of those who laid the foundations of a documentary collection that has become essential today. Through rediscoveries and treasures such as the Libro Rosso, this journey tells the story of how Lecce chose to safeguard its memory.
Lecce in transformation: visions, choices and projects of a city in the making
From Italian Unification to the early decades of the 20th century, Lecce took on a new face: new roads were opened, infrastructures built, and a modern urban identity defined. This journey retraces the city’s transformations through documents, the visions of its mayors, and the works that marked its growth.
Enchanting Lecce: palaces, theatres and shopping streets
In the late 19th century, Lecce established itself as a cultural and civic centre of Salento. The provincial library, the museum and the municipal theatre were founded. This archival journey recounts the making of an elegant and lively city, through the voices of those who imagined its future.
Research Guide
Do you need help navigating the Archive’s collections? This section walks you through the consultation process—both online and on-site—providing useful tools, practical guidance, and tips to help you begin or deepen your research.