Chiesa di Santa Teresa (Church of St. Theresa), Lecce

The Church of St. Theresa (Chiesa di Santa Teresa) is an example of Baroque architecture located in the heart of the historic center of Lecce. Founded in 1620, this church and its adjoining convent of the Discalced Carmelites were brought to life through the vision of Giuseppe Zimbalo, a renowned master from Lecce.

The construction of the church took place on the site previously occupied by two ancient chapels dedicated to San Nicola and Santa Venera. Completed in 1630, it stands as a testament to Zimbalo's exceptional craftsmanship and design sensibilities.

Throughout its history, the church and convent have undergone various transformations and repurposing. In 1831, the archconfraternity of the SS. Crucifix and the Gonfalone initiated a restoration project to bring the church back to its former glory. Their efforts breathed new life into the structure, rescuing it from a state of neglect.

The facade of the Church of St. Theresa, although left unfinished, exhibits remarkable architectural elements. Divided into two orders, it captivates visitors with its volumetric complexity and the decorative exuberance of the Corinthian columns and festoons. The lower order is adorned with columns featuring fluted shafts and two niches that house stone statues of Saint John the Baptist and Saint John the Evangelist.

Above the entrance portal, one can observe the coat of arms of the Archconfraternity of the Crucifix. The upper order, though lacking a crowning pediment, showcases a large window and intricate floral compositions reminiscent of the facade of the Church of the Rosary.