One of Italy's oldest Christian buildings stands in this south-western corner of the Salento. The Church of Santa Maria Della Croce anchors the historical identity of Casarano, drawing visitors interested in early religious architecture rather than typical coastal diversions.
Ranking as the sixth most populous municipality in the Lecce province with nearly 20,500 residents, the town relies heavily on agriculture. Olive oil production dominates the local economy, shaping the landscape and providing a pragmatic, working-class counterpoint to the region's tourist hubs.
Near Casarano
The closest destinations covered by our editors, with straight-line distance.
