Palazzo del Seggio (Il Sedile) (Palace of the Seggio), Lecce
The Palace of the Seggio, also known simply as Il Sedile, is a prominent building in the historic center. Constructed in 1592 by architect Alessandro Saponaro for Venetian Doge Pietro Mocenigo, the palace replaced an older structure demolished a few years earlier.
Its design combines Gothic and Renaissance elements, highlighted by four strong corner pillars with oval openings, framed by large pointed arches and topped with decorative open galleries (loggias). This architectural mix is a notable example of Lecce’s rich heritage, with design influences that echo works by the local architect Gabriele Riccardi.
Historically, Il Sedile served various public and institutional purposes, most notably as Lecce’s Town Hall until 1851. Today, the palace has been revitalized as a cultural space, hosting art exhibitions that celebrate the city’s artistic traditions. Adjacent to the building is the Chapel of San Marco, further enriching the historical atmosphere of this lively central square.
Its design combines Gothic and Renaissance elements, highlighted by four strong corner pillars with oval openings, framed by large pointed arches and topped with decorative open galleries (loggias). This architectural mix is a notable example of Lecce’s rich heritage, with design influences that echo works by the local architect Gabriele Riccardi.
Historically, Il Sedile served various public and institutional purposes, most notably as Lecce’s Town Hall until 1851. Today, the palace has been revitalized as a cultural space, hosting art exhibitions that celebrate the city’s artistic traditions. Adjacent to the building is the Chapel of San Marco, further enriching the historical atmosphere of this lively central square.
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Palazzo del Seggio (Il Sedile) (Palace of the Seggio) on Map
Sight Name: Palazzo del Seggio (Il Sedile) (Palace of the Seggio)
Sight Location: Lecce, Italy (See walking tours in Lecce)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Sight Location: Lecce, Italy (See walking tours in Lecce)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Walking Tours in Lecce, Italy
Create Your Own Walk in Lecce
Creating your own self-guided walk in Lecce is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Lecce Introduction Walking Tour
German historian Ferdinand Gregorovius called Lecce “the Florence of the Baroque era.” The city traces its beginnings around the time of the Trojan Wars, which took place around the 11th century BC. However, it first steps firmly into the record in the 3rd century BC as Lupiae under Roman control. The name is thought to come from lupus, the Latin word for wolf, recalling the animals that once... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.1 Km or 1.3 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.1 Km or 1.3 Miles
Lecce's Baroque Churches Walking Tour
Lecce isn’t shy about its reputation-it’s often called the “Capital of Baroque,” and one stroll through the old town makes it clear why. This southern Italian city turned its soft local limestone, Lecce stone, into an architect’s playground. Elaborate façades, swirling details, and sculptures bursting from the walls made the 17th century feel like one long design competition. And with... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles