The Peschiera of Federico II dates back to the 13th century and is located in the south-west area of Minervino di Lecce.
Unique in its kind in Salento, this archaeological testimony is made up of a complex of tanks excavated in the limestone rock, which accompany the visitor on a fascinating journey through history and hydraulic engineering of the Middle Ages.
The work is among the numerous achievements wanted by Emperor Federico Ruggero di Hohenstaufen, better known as Federico II di Svevia, remembered with the famous appellations of Stupor Mundi ("wonder of the world") and Puer Apuliae ("youth of Apulia").
Access is through a stone portal, surmounted by a coat of arms depicting a lamb with a flag. From here, a long canal for collecting water leads to the large central tank, similar to a swimming pool.
Along the left wall, you can also admire a dovecote and a suggestive natural cave.
Remains one of the few existing and well-preserved in Puglia.
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Visits with audio guide, virtual projections, stories and much more…!

The Peschiera of Frederick II dates back to the 13th century and is located in the south-west area of Minervino di Lecce.
Unique in its kind in Salento, this archaeological testimony consists of a complex of tanks carved into the limestone rock, accompanying the visitor on a fascinating journey through history and hydraulic engineering of the Middle Ages.
The work is among the many achievements wanted by Emperor Frederick Roger of Hohenstaufen, better known as Frederick II of Swabia, remembered with the famous epithets of Stupor Mundi (“wonder of the world”) and Puer Apuliae (“boy of Puglia”).
Access is through a stone portal, surmounted by a coat of arms depicting a lamb with a flag. From here, a long canal for water collection is flanked, leading to the large central tank, similar to a pool.
Along the left wall, you can also admire a dovecote and a suggestive natural cave.

Remains one of the few existing and well preserved in Puglia.

Book your trip through history too!
Visits with audio guide, virtual projections, stories and much more…!

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History of Peschiera

​Peschiera, the result of medieval hydraulic engineering, is part of the many works built in the Middle Ages

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Accessibility

​Barrier-free routes, ramps and dedicated services ensure the accessibility of the archaeological site to all visitors.

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Visit to Peschiera

​Entry to the structure is free, to make a visit a reservation is necessary, easily compilable online.

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Experiences

​The path is enriched by augmented reality content that allows you to see reconstructions and in-depth analyses.

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