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Lecce Recreated in Minecraft by Harvard Graduate Developer

Lecce Recreated in Minecraft by Developer Valerio Bonetti Virtual visitors can now explore the Italian city of Lecce block by block within Minecraft, featuring accurate recreations of local landmarks like the Roman Amphitheater and Via Trinchese. The digital…

Lecce Recreated in Minecraft by Harvard Graduate Developer

Lecce Recreated in Minecraft by Developer Valerio Bonetti

Virtual visitors can now explore the Italian city of Lecce block by block within Minecraft, featuring accurate recreations of local landmarks like the Roman Amphitheater and Via Trinchese. The digital replication of Lecce was built by 31-year-old software developer Valerio Bonetti.

Building the Virtual City

Bonetti spent significant time constructing the entire urban layout within the popular sandbox game, including streets, historic buildings, monuments, and functional interiors such as movie theaters where players can watch films. The project requires standard gaming hardware like a mouse, keyboard, or joystick to operate. Bonetti announced that he will make the virtual map available for free to all players.

Background of the Developer

Bonetti holds a master’s degree from Harvard University and works professionally in software development and artificial intelligence. Alongside developing custom programs for various businesses—including rapid interior architecture rendering tools—he combined his profession with his hobby as a gamer. He shared preview footage of the virtual city on TikTok and Instagram, drawing widespread attention online.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can players access the virtual recreation of Lecce?

Developer Valerio Bonetti plans to make the custom Minecraft map available to download for free for all interested players and gaming enthusiasts.

What landmarks are included in the Minecraft version of Lecce?

The virtual world includes local streets, Via Trinchese, historic palazzos, monuments, the Roman Amphitheater, and functional spaces like cinemas.

What is Valerio Bonetti’s professional background?

Bonetti is a 31-year-old software developer who studied at his local university before earning a master’s degree at Harvard University, specializing in software and artificial intelligence projects.

About the author: Anika Shah - Technology

MSc in Computer Science, senior reporter. Anika focuses on AI ethics, cybersecurity, and emerging hardware—frequently moderating panels at CES and Web Summit. “Anika Shah decodes tech breakthroughs and startup disruption shaping tomorrow’s digital landscape.”