Theatro Paisiello

In the historic center of Lecce, just a few steps from Porta Napoli, stands the 19th-century Teatro Paisiello, a typical example of an Italian-style structure.\n\nThe people of Lecce affectionately call it \"the jewel box\" for its undeniable beauty and small size. Rebuilt in 1872, the Teatro Paisiello features refined decorations crafted by Neapolitan artisans. Three rows of boxes frame the horseshoe-shaped auditorium, adorned with carvings, gilding, and red velvet.\n\nThe neoclassical facade conceals an elegant foyer with several niches, where one can still admire the busts of musicians Giovanni Paisiello, to whom the theater is dedicated, and Leonardo Leo, sculpted by Antonio Bortone. Here, a precious piano once owned by the famous tenor Tito Schipa is preserved.