MUST – Historical Museum of the City of Lecce: A Journey into the Heart of the Baroque and Beyond

The MUST – Historical Museum of the City of Lecce is a cultural institution that offers a complete immersion into the history and art of this fascinating city, renowned for its unmistakable Baroque style. Located in the heart of the historic center, within a building of extraordinary beauty and history, the museum is not merely a place of preservation but a vibrant hub of cultural production and promotion.

History and the Building: The Convent of Santa Chiara

The MUST is housed in the former Convent of Santa Chiara, a monastic complex dating back to the 16th century whose history is deeply intertwined with that of the city. Once home to the Poor Clares, the building underwent a careful and meticulous restoration that preserved its original structure while transforming it into a modern museum center.

The convent’s architecture itself is an integral part of the museum experience: its evocative cloisters, ancient star vaults, and historic halls provide a deeply atmospheric setting that interacts in an unexpected and stimulating way with contemporary artworks. The restored wing of the convent, with its spacious and luminous rooms, lends itself perfectly to hosting exhibitions and cultural events, making it a focal point for Lecce’s artistic life.

Collections and Exhibition Path: From Twentieth-Century Painting to the Avant-Garde

The museum’s exhibition path is divided into several sections that narrate the story of Lecce through its artistic expressions.

• The Contemporary Art Gallery: this section houses the museum’s rich permanent collection, developed through donations and targeted acquisitions. Its core is dedicated to Apulian and Salentine artists who shaped the 20th century, offering a glimpse into the artistic movements that have defined the region. Among the featured artists are figures who masterfully interpreted the light and traditions of Salento through modern languages, creating a dialogue between the region’s past and its contemporary creativity.
• Temporary Exhibitions: the MUST stands out for its bold and dynamic exhibition program. The museum’s spacious halls regularly host temporary shows dedicated to prominent figures in contemporary art—both Italian and international—as well as thematic exhibitions exploring current challenges and trends. This ever-changing program ensures that each visit feels fresh and stimulating, attracting a diverse and curious audience.
• The Underground Floor and the History of the City: an entire section of the museum is devoted to the history of Lecce, featuring archaeological artifacts and installations that trace the city’s development from its Messapian and Roman origins to the present day. To make the experience even more engaging, the museum employs modern multimedia installations that allow visitors to uncover the secrets of Lecce’s urban heritage and the figures who have shaped its history.

Visitor Information

• Address: Via degli Ammirati, 11, 73100 Lecce (LE), in the heart of the historic center, just steps away from the Roman Amphitheatre and Piazza Sant’Oronzo.
• Contacts
  • Phone: +39 0832 241067
  • Email: [email protected]

Cover photo credits: Official Website – Carlo Elmiro