Palazzo del Governo - ex Convento dei Celestini

The Palazzo dei Celestini is the former convent of the Padri Celestini, who were hosted here for three centuries until the Napoleonic suppression in 1807, when the monks were expelled and the building became the seat of the Intendancy of Terra d'Otranto.\n\nAdjacent to the Basilica of Santa Croce, the palace is in a particularly strategic central location thanks to its dual access from Via Umberto I and Viale XXV Luglio.\n\nThe architectural structure still preserves the plastic elements of the original work in the linear and sumptuous ashlar work of the facade. The facade, enlivened by decorations carved in stone, especially in the window frames on the two floors, gradually opens up to innovations typical of the Rococo style.\n\nThe elegant decoration on Via Umberto I harmonizes beautifully with that of the neighboring buildings, offering one of the most suggestive spectacles in the city.\n\nAlso known as Palazzo del Governo, the building today houses the Prefecture and the Province of Lecce.