On 30 December, the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Torch Relay will cross Salento, following a route that will bring natural landscapes and baroque architecture into constant dialogue, from the start in ​Nardò to the finish in Lecce in the evening.
The programme of the day
The day will begin in Nardò, a city recognisable for its scenic squares and an old town with elegant baroque proportions. ​​Crossing its urban fabric, the Flame will move between palaces that tell the story of the noble families that have defined its architectural identity. ​​The route will continue towards ​​Gallipoli, where the ancient village, lying on an island of limestone rock, maintains a deep relationship with the Ionian Sea, which has always guided its life and activities.
Leaving the coast, the relay will reach Presicce-Acquarica and Maglie, areas where the rural landscape is marked by centuries-old olive trees, dry stone walls and ancient masserie. ​​Here the Flame will cross a part of Salento where the agricultural tradition is still intertwined with a lively artisan identity, helping to define a unique rhythm in the cultural landscape of the region.
The arrival in Otranto will then offer one of the most evocative moments of the day. ​​The ancient village, overlooking the Adriatic and known as the easternmost point of Italy, preserves walls, streets and sea views that tell of centuries of encounters and exchanges. ​​In this stretch there will be no shortage of views capable of evoking the strength of the Salento coastal landscape, where the light stone and the sea line compose a natural picture of great balance.
The stage will end in Lecce, where the Flame will enter the urban fabric through streets that anticipate the elegance of the baroque city. ​​The route will naturally lead to the arrival in ​Piazza Angelo Rizzo, which will become the setting for the city ​celebration, a collective moment that will unite architecture, community and city atmosphere in a closing full of participation.
Discover the complete route of the 23rd stage.
The partners of the Journey
The Olympic Flame is accompanied by two exceptional partners: Coca-Cola and Eni are, in fact, the ​​Presenting ​Partners of the Olympic Flame Relay in support of this extraordinary moment that marks the last stretch of road before the start of the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Games. ​​The entire Olympic Torch Relay is enhanced by the special activations and events of Coca-Cola and Eni, which make each stage even more engaging and memorable, transmitting energy, emotion and participation throughout the route.