Chiesa di Sant'Irene (St. Irene Church), Lecce

The Saint Irene Church (Chiesa di Sant'Irene) is a remarkable Catholic place of worship located in the historic center of Lecce. It holds a special dedication to Saint Irene of Lecce, who served as the protector of the city until 1656 when Pope Alexander VII declared the patronage of Lecce to be held by another holy bishop, Saint Oronzo.

Construction of the church began in 1591 under the guidance of the Theatine architect Francesco Grimaldi and was finally completed in 1639. The consecration ceremony was conducted by the bishop of Brindisi, marking a significant milestone in the church's history.

Throughout the years, the Saint Irene Church has witnessed several significant historical events. In 1797, it received a visit from King Ferdinand IV of Naples, highlighting its importance and recognition. Additionally, in October 1860, the church played a crucial role in hosting the plebiscite operations to determine Lecce's decision to join the Kingdom of Italy. Despite the suppression of the adjoining Theatine convent in 1866, the church remained open for worship, emphasizing its enduring spiritual significance.

Architecturally, the church draws inspiration from the design of the Church of Sant'Andrea della Valle in Rome, where Francesco Grimaldi had previously worked. The facade of the Saint Irene Church features a double-order layout, characterized by superimposed pilasters adorned with festoons. The lower order incorporates columns interspersed with empty niches and cartouches, while the upper order showcases a large window, adding an element of grandeur and elegance to the structure.