Lecce to Cisternino and Ceglie Messapica: Private day trip

First settled by the Greeks, the town was conquered by the Romans before being destroyed by Hannibal. In the 9th century, an order of Basilian monks built a Greek Orthodox monastery here, reestablishing the town. Through the Middle Ages, the town continued to grow, adding new buildings and districts as needed rather than following a civic plan. Today, this creates a twisting and winding medieval center for visitors to explore. Amongst the historic alleys, monuments abound, such as the 13th century Norman-Swabian tower, and 14th century Church of San Nicola built on the original Orthodox monastery, and the beautiful baroque Church of San Cataldo. For a uniquely local eating experience, the town is famous for its barbecuing butchers, where you choose your meat, and they’ll cook it for you on the spot.