A few kilometres from Lecce lies Acaya, a hamlet of Vernole. It is a very picturesque village with a medieval atmosphere. The castle, surrounded by a wide moat, is particularly noteworthy. It is the work of the military architect Gian Giacomo, one of the most famous architects of the sixteenth century.
For nature lovers, the State Nature Reserve "Le Cesine", between San Cataldo and Vernole, is a must. It is a reserve of wetlands protected and managed by the WWF, with a wide variety of habitats and species. For more information visit the website: www.riservalecesine.it.
