Chiesa di San Giovanni Evangelista (Church of Saint John the Evangelist), Lecce

The Church of Saint John the Evangelist is closely linked with its adjoining Benedictine monastery. Founded in 1133 by the Norman count Accardo II, the church and monastery have long been influential in the region’s religious, social, and political life.

Over the centuries, the monastery housed cloistered communities largely made up of girls from Salento’s wealthiest aristocratic families, reflecting its prestige and deep ties to both nobility and the church hierarchy. The monastery also held extensive property and maintained important relationships with popes and sovereigns.

Architecturally, the church features a notable entrance with a gated portal topped by a distinctive clock face and a statue of Saint Benedict on the upper floor, adding character to its historic façade.

Despite significant state confiscations that diminished its assets, the monastery retains a unique heritage, including a precious archive and sacred furnishings.

Today, the cloistered nuns are known for their almond paste sweets, especially popular during Christmas and Easter, adding a living cultural tradition to this quiet, tucked-away corner of the city.