[7][8], The city is also the birthplace of numerous world-class composers, including Giacomo Puccini, Alfredo Catalani, and Luigi Boccherini. Visiting Lucca Italy is a perfect way to experience Tuscany minus the crowds - it's a living and breathing, lively little town, where locals gather for a passeggiata on top of the town's walls, and elderly ladies sell their home-made pasta in vintage grocery stores. Florence is an important Renaissance architecture and art center with several excellent museums. A real community with real people! Lucca is well-positioned from famous places in Italy like Cinque Terre and Florence. Celebration of Puccini. im sure it wont be my lasts, so i am not making myself crazy checking off the big boxes. For an affordable stay in a great location, I definitely recommend the B&B Anfiteatro. This article is now available as a mobile app. From more recent and concrete toponymic studies, the name Lucca has references that lead to "sacred grove" (Latin: lucus), "to cut" (Latin: lucare) and "luminous space" (leuk, a term used by the first European populations). Whats great about Lucca is that it has so many towers to choose from. From there Ive done day trips by train to Florence, Pisa, Cinque Terre, and several other beautiful places. Next to the cathedral is its tall 13th-century bell tower and Casa dell'Opera del Duomo, a typical medieval house of Lucca. The shopping wasnt bad either. They run for more than 4 kilometres and are strengthened by no fewer than 10 bastions; you can walk along the top of them too. Lots of places to eat. 23 things to do in Lucca, Italy | PACK THE SUITCASES The buildings surrounding the square have been created in the same elliptical shape and are all different heights and colours the effect is quite astounding and the shades of yellow, cream and white create an inviting open space. Even little ones will enjoy the garden. Look at this oak tree!). It was enchanting to say the least. Furthermore, there are several greenhouses, an arboretum, a herbarium and several ponds and water features. Lucca can be visited year-round. Love the blog! enjoy. What a great memory to have. The Guinigi tower was owned by the Guinigi family until they donated it to the town. Lucca is a historical city located in Tuscany on the western coast of Italy this city lies in close proximity to Pisa and is known as the city of a hundred churches due to its large amount of historical religious structures. Never been, but now it is on the to do list, thanks! Since 2004, Lucca is home to IMT Lucca, a public research institution and a selective graduate school and part of the Superior Graduate Schools in Italy (Grandes coles).[29]. Lucca is such an easy, walkable city, and there are plenty of kid-friendly places to eat. We are currently planning our next trip to Lucca If they ever open the borders to Americans again! The train station is on the southern part of the city, just outside of the city walls. I would take daytrips to obscure neighboring hill towns to sketch. Our family loves visiting Lucca and were sure you will too! Costume procession through the town's roads. As for your questions regarding accessibility, I must admit that this concern has been a blindspot of mine. Lucca Christmas Market Piazza Napoleone transforms into a traditional Christmas market in December. It makes for a colourful, secular carnival, thronging with cosplayers from all over the world. Traditional Specialties From Lucca, Tuscany | A Sprinkle Of Italy This is made so much easier when youre in a compact, pedestrian-friendly place like Lucca. We dont sleep in Lucca, but friends and family who have done so have preferred hotels to apartment stays. I have not spent a lot of time in Italy but it sounds like Lucca is my type of place. The Lucca cathedral was (and still is) an important stop on the Via Francigena. Yes, where the ancient amphitheatre once lay, now a ring of houses stand, preserving the oval plaza within. Disclaimer and For those who love historical architecture and Medieval constructs, Lucca is a true haven as mentioned above, it is known as the city of a hundred churches boasting such buildings as Lucca Cathedral and San Michele in Foro. Nicknamed the town of a hundred churches on account of its incredible number of places of worship, it is unique among city-states for having maintained its independence up until 1847. Its also a place that is very much lived in. When to visit, what to see, helpful tips, and map. I share her name and bday is April 27. [37], Since 1 November 2021 the public local transport is managed by Autolinee Toscane. Youll see locals jogging and walking, kids playing in the small play areas and people picnicking and relaxing in the grass. ? An equally striking facade can be seen on the citys St Martin Cathedral. [35][36], Consorzio Lucchese Autotrasporti Pubblici, also known as CLAP, was established in 1969, as the main company in the Province of Lucca to manage the local public transport. Its a building that looks amazing from both afar and right up close. I loved Lucca, especially being able to walk the walls. Another stunning church in the centre of Lucca, the Basilica di San Michele in Foro features a unique front faade that is not like any other in the city. What makes the tower so wonderful is the trees that erupt from the brick towers top; a medieval rooftop garden. For wine lovers there is no other place in Lucca to visit than the Vinni Liquori Vanni. The track around the tops of the walls runs about 4km, making it a comfortable walk and nice way to see more of the city. Being an untouched historical city, my expectations would be quite low. We visited Lucca and I fell in love with it. In summer, there are evening concerts scheduled, too. Lucca is also well preserved historic Center. At the Lucca Conference, in 56 BC, Julius Caesar, Pompey, and Crassus reaffirmed their political alliance known as the First Triumvirate.[13][14]. And yet, both times Ive found myself visiting Lucca. This epic structure was once used to carry water from the mountains into the city and contained 400 arches made from stone stretching for 3km. Travelsewhere / David Johnston 2023. The most notable feature is not the height however, it is the garden that sits at the very top this garden contains some beautiful Holm Oak trees that symbolize rebirth and have become an icon of Lucca. The entire north western region of Tuscany is full of surprises. This region is well known for its exquisite marble, dramatic landscapes and hiking and climbing opportunities. PROVINCE OF LUCCA, Italy. I fell in love with Lucca when I visited in 2016. Pisa and its famous Leaning Tower are very close to Lucca, only 20 km or 13 miles. As time progressed, the need for defense lessened and the tower was turned into a horological clock tower instead. Visit the Piazza dell'Anfiteatro. Its just in front of the train station, so its easy to rent from if youre arriving by train. In 1314, internal discord allowed Uguccione della Faggiuola of Pisa to make himself lord of Lucca. Ristorante Trattoria LAngolo Tondo (Piazza dellAnfiteatro, 51) Simple Tuscan cooking in a beautiful setting on the Piazza dellAnfiteatro. You can also take a direct bus (50 minutes) or take a bus to Pisa and from there take a train to Lucca (45 minutes total). This building is renowned for its front faade that contains a beautiful mosaic and its impressive ornate bell tower. The outline of the Roman amphitheatre is still seen in the Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, and the outline of a Roman theater is visible in Piazza Sant'Augostino. The rectangular grid of its historical centre preserves the Roman street plan, and the Piazza San Michele occupies the site of the ancient forum. Lucca's cathedral, dedicated to San Martino or Saint Martin, sits on Piazza San Martino surrounded by impressive medieval buildings. Inside the cathedral, there is a plethora of beautiful artwork and one of the main features is the sublime shrine of the Sacred Face of Lucca. [21][22], During the High Middle Ages, one of the most illustrious dynasties of Lucca was the noble Allucingoli family, who managed to forge strong ties with the Church. We included Lucca as a handy location between Cinque Terre and Florence. And on a walk through Lucca, the discoveries do not end there. lucca keeps popping up, so i will have to really look into it more. How do you think it compares to San San Gimignanos towers? The only reigning dukes of Lucca were Maria Luisa of Spain, who was succeeded by her son Charles II, Duke of Parma in 1824. Nutmeg is the spice that gives it its unique flavour. Now, I am dreaming of returning to the country he left behind. Read all about the Best Beaches Near Lucca! Big names like Florence and Pisa are very close by, while you also have smaller destinations like Pistoia. Truly the same goes for the ever-popular region of Tuscany. My family has a home in the mountains outside of Lucca. Good To Know: We like to rent from Tourist Center Lucca Bike Rental in Piazzale Ricasoli. Friendly and helpful staff. I didnt have time to make it out there when I was in Italy, but maybe one day! 5 Reasons Why You Really Must Visit Palermo, What Its Like to Visit Tasmania in Winter. What to Eat and Drink . From here you can see the many other towers within the city and such landmarks as the Cathedral and Basilica of San Frediano. The dish comprises of egg-based bright yellow pasta stuffed with a mixture of seasoned beef and pork meat topped with heavily meat-laden ragu, widely used meat-based sauce in Italy. Its official number was P.G. Don't miss climbing the city's famous towers or torre. As you walk through the city streets, you will also come across the faade of the basilica of San Frediano, and then the piazza and sumptuous church of San Michele. The Old Town of Lucca - Life in Italy This will allow you to slow down and not worry about checking things off a list. [18], The Lucca cloth was a silk fabric that was woven with gold or silver threads. This Square is exactly as the name describes and was once a Roman Amphitheatre the elliptical shape is still evident even if none of the original structure is. This means over 4 kilometers of panoramic walkway overlooking the . If you click on one, I may make a small commission. After the death of Matilda of Tuscany, the city began to constitute itself an independent commune with a charter in 1160. Food & Wine Experience in the Countryside from Lucca, All available tours and activities in Lucca, 15 Best Things to Do in Whitehaven (Cumbria, England), 15 Best Romantic (Weekend) Getaways in Washington (State), 15 Best Things to Do in Wuppertal (Germany), Sample some fine wine at Vinni Liquori Vanni. Located on the Via del Moro in the heart of the old town, this unassuming establishment benefits from fantastic hosts and high-quality dishes. We loved Lucca. One highlight was the train journey through the Valley between the Garfagna range and the Alpine range near the cost. b. I totally agree that its a great place to base yourself if you want to explore that region of Italy. I agree that Torre Guinigi is special with all those trees on top. In accordance with the Treaty of Vienna (1815), upon the death of Marie Louise, Duchess of Parma in 1847, Parma reverted to Charles II, Duke of Parma, while Lucca lost independence and was annexed to the Grand Duchy of Tuscany. Forgot to pack something for your baby or toddler? [28] Although it never had permanent structures and accommodation consisted of tents in an area prone to flooding, it housed more than 3,000 British and Commonwealth prisoners of war during the period of its existence. You can walk clear around Lucca on top of the wall. His biography is Machiavelli's third famous book on political rule. Even though you never really need to escape any noise or chaos in Lucca, the citys Botanical Garden is worth a stroll. The rich, famous and powerful powerful flocked to this area for the hot springs and spa treatments, among them Lord Byron, Percy . Lucca once boasted over 130 towers but only a handful remain today. The Tuscan cigar is another of Lucca's prides and glories. You can also breastfeed in restaurants, museums, and anywhere else. The narrow, nearly carless, streets were lovely and the walk around the walls was too. This establishment had a huge wine cellar packed full with a staggering amount of different vintages if you ask the staff they will take you below and let you peruse the catalogue if you are lucky you can also have a few samples or even partake in a wine tasting session. Probably the thing that most won me over originally was Luccas immense city walls. When it comes to churches and cathedrals, its fair to say that Italy has some of the best in the world. The center is a ZTL (zona traffic limitato limited traffic zone) and you cant drive in if you dont have permission. No spam, good ideas only. The historic old town isnt for show, but indeed primarily made up of residential buildings. Lucca is also known for its marble deposits. The original church was first mentioned in the 8th century but gained its current form during the 13th century. Hey there! Privacy Policy Further reading: All available tours and activities in Lucca. These walls were built initially as a defensive rampart which, after losing their military importance, became a pedestrian promenade (the Passeggiata delle Mure Urbane) atop the walls which not only links the Bastions of Santa Croce, San Frediano, San Martino, San Pietro/Battisti, San Salvatore, La Libert/Cairoli, San Regolo, San Colombano, Santa Maria, San Paolino/Catalani and San Donato but also passes over the gates (Porte) of San Donato, Santa Maria, San Jacopo, Elisa, San Pietro, and Sant'Anna. After the fall of the Roman Empire, it became a free commune in the Middle Ages, and in the 13th century, it became a prosperous trading center and a . We found the local grocery stores were close and the proprietors were very helpful. The jewish community was led by the Kalonymos family (which later became a major component of proto-Ashkenazic Jewry). while we saw many marvels as we travelled the charm and relaxed feel of Lucca gave me the best interpretation of true Italy. Florence's cathedral, or Duomo, with its famous dome and its Baptistery, are architectural wonders that are not to be missed. I was a celebrity that day. Spring, especially April and May, and fall, especially September and October, are ideal times to visit. The origin apparently refers to a wooded area deforested to make room for light or to a clearing located on a river island of Serchio debris, in the middle of wooded areas. Climb the Guinigi Tower Guinigi Tower In the center of the walled old town, you can't help noticing a massive tower with holm oaks growing on the top. A clear favourite of mine has to be the Torre Guinigi, in my mind the most awe-inspiring historic tower in the world. Most Popular Traditional Dishes in the Province of Lucca Hotel Palazzo Alexander 4-star hotel in the center of Lucca, but in a quiet area. What strikes you about the church seen above is its four stories of loggias below an oversized statue of St Michael the Archangel. The walls are all accessed by ramps but I cant say the same for certain for the main museums and certainly not the towers. The Lucchesi expelled him two years later, and handed over the city to another condottiero, Castruccio Castracani, under whose rule it became a leading state in central Italy. Lucca is an ancient and storied town located between Florence and Pisa in the Italian region of Tuscany. Lucca Italy is one of the most stunning cities in Tuscany, if not all of Italy. Also bus ride away to forte di mare a beautiful seaside resort with marble sidewalks. Good To Know: Lucca was named a UNESCO World Heritage site for its well-preserved walls. Traditional Specialties from Lucca. Suggested tour: Lucca Semi-Private 3-Hour Tour. Lucca Antiques Market Every 3rd Sunday of the month (and the Saturday before), over 200 exhibitors display their antiques in the streets and piazzas in the city. Forato, the ancient marble quarries, the stunning Lipu Oasis and the Casola Museum. Whats also great is that you can stay in the heart of the old town, in converted residences. The square is a favorite place in Lucca to sit and have a coffee. The summer music festival crowd just depends on the artist that is playing. Visiting for the celebration of Puccini sounds like a really special experience. VaiBus was part of ONE Scarl the consortium holder of the two-year (2018-2019) contract for the management of the TPL throughout the Region. Walking the Renaissance-era walls, climbing the numerous towers for a view over the city, and having lunch in Piazza dell'Anfiteatro all top the list of the best things to do in Lucca. Also on Via Fillungo is the Torre delle Ore, or clock toweranother medieval tower that you can climb. Our kids love the turtles in the pond, the cacti, the small fountains, the fish, and choosing their favorite plant or flower. Today the aqueduct stands in its entirety and you can follow the structure from its beginning at the Temple cistern, through to its end at the Parco dellAcquedotto. The town of Lucca, Italy is best known for its historic appeal. Good To Know: If you enjoyed the climb and want to do another one, climb the Torre delle Ore on Via Fillungo. Not "Tortelli" But "Tordelli". Its not the only tower in town that you can climb, but its the most recognizable its the one with the oak trees on top. All Rights Reserved. San Giovanni Church was built in the 12th century and partially remodeled in the 17th, but still has some Romanesque features. Park in the blue spaces and pay (by coin or credit card) in the machines and display your ticket on your dash. Outside the walls, you will find a beautiful district of Liberty-style villas, just next to the inhabited centre. Even though Lucca has plenty of shady, green areas, on a hot summer day, theres not much better than a dip in the sea! San Frediano's facade is decorated with a stunning 13th-century Byzantine-style mosaic. I cant vouch for living there but with so many other fantastic destinations nearby theres no way youd round out of things to see. [16] The Holy Face of Lucca (or Volto Santo), a major relic supposedly carved by Nicodemus, arrived in 742. The quality of the food, the attentiveness of the staff and the atmosphere will create a magical evening. I really want to visit Torre Guinigi so cool that theres a sort of medieval rooftop garden at the top of the tower! My Italian father came to the US during WW II as a guest of the American military and never returned to Voghera to live after marrying my mother. You'll see a bronze statue of Puccini in the piazza bearing his name, a pleasant square with a few cafes and a restaurant. Lucca Italy Guide: Planning Your Trip - TripSavvy In 1942, during World War II, a prisoner-of-war camp was established at the village of Colle di Compito, in the municipality of Capannori, about 11 kilometres (6.8mi) from Lucca. We visited many churches, and went to mass each Sunday at the Basilica de San Frediano, our favorite church. Lucca is a historical city located in Tuscany on the western coast of Italy - this city lies in close proximity to Pisa and is known as the city of a hundred churches due to its large amount of historical religious structures. Lucca is an easy town to visit and soak up everyday Italian life. Amazing beach with colorful cabanas and sophisticated restaurants. The saying goes: "Chi viene a Lucca e non mangia il buccellato come non ci fosse mai stato" (anyone who comes to Lucca and doesn't eat buccellato might as well not have been there). Lucca, Italy is definitely worth a visit! Mostly Europeans but a hidden gem to all others. Italians are very supportive of breastfeeding and youll see Italian mothers feeding their children everywhere. One of the citys most grand churches is the Chiesa di San Michele in Foro in the very heart of the old town. Of course, this will come at no extra cost to you and helps keep this site running. Home Travel Guides Italy 15 Best Things to Do in Lucca (Italy). Lucca is easily accessible from all directions. Fun Fact: The base of the walls is 30 meters wide and the walls are 12 meters high. If you need diapers, wipes, diaper cream and toiletries, or baby food head to the grocery store or pharmacy. Our favorite piazza was Napoleone where there was a skating rink and a large circus type merry-go-round, with lots of small restaurants all around. Lucca was an important city and fortress even in the sixth century, when Narses besieged it for several months in 553. 15 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Lucca | PlanetWare The only problem with climbing the Torre Guinigi is that you cant see the Torre Guinigi! It's a peaceful place to get away from the crowds. Everywhere you go in Luccas old town reflects a look of a city from centuries ago. This difficulty in finding your way isnt helped by the fact that from street level you often cant spot landmarks like towers with which to orient yourself. take a random trip, Nozzano, Sienna, San Geminiano, Pisa! There's a large collection of local Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance art including 15th-century wood inlays. Lucca (/luk/ LOO-k, Italian:[lukka] (listen)) is a city and comune in Tuscany, Central Italy, on the Serchio River, in a fertile plain near the Ligurian Sea. We often visit on a day trip from Florence or we drive to Lucca for the afternoon after the kids get out of school its enough time to cycle around the walls, get ice cream, climb the tower, and play in the park. Overview Europe Italy 11 Best Things to Do in Lucca, Italy By Martha Bakerjian Updated on 06/26/19 Santiago Urquijo/Getty Images Lucca, one of the most romantic towns in Tuscany, holds many attractions for tourists. Make your way down Via Fillungo and cross piazzas, pass by churches, and shop in Luccas boutiques. Either rent a bicycle (there are bike shops throughout the city, especially along the walls) or use your two feet and make your way up to the path along the walls the Via delle Mura Urbane. The shady, grassy areas are perfect on a hot, summer day. The walls enclosing Lucca's historic center are some of the best-preserved ramparts in Italy. In winter it was practically deserted, despite still being just as enchanting. Dine here if youre looking for something different than the traditional Tuscan food served in most restaurants in the city. Lucca rivalled Florence until Castracani's death in 1328. Its large enough to have all of the conveniences of a big city, but its walled center is quiet, walkable, charming, and full of green spaces. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your devices and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. I was there in 1971 and 1981 with John Delmontes Group. Best Places to Visit in the Czech Republic What Your Malta Itinerary Could Look Like, The Vibrant, Revolutionary Spirit of Timisoara, Romania, The Incomplete Europe Public Transport Guide 1.0. And, youre close to the sea! Tortelli Lucchese is one of the most popular dishes in Lucca that is similar to meat ravioli. Lucca, Italy: The Charming City in Tuscany! - PlacesofJuma Via Fillungo is a main shopping street in the historic center. The Torre delle Ore has served as both a defensive fortification and a clock tower during its 700 year history. The basilica is close to the Piazza dellAnfiteatro and worth a quick stop. The climb isnt difficult, but the last section may be difficult for those with vertigo. Trains were easy from the station just outside the old city walls. Theres a huge Esselunga grocery store about a 10-minute walk south of the walls. Each section of the gardens is beautifully maintained and the variety of colours and species is wonderful to behold. There are also several artworks and frescoes and the mummified body of The Incorruptible Santa Zita. Lucca is one of Tuscany's most beloved artistic cities, an unskippable part of any tour of the region. I went on to become a street artist in Florence, doing Portraits in the 80s, but I always visited Lucca. Enhance your visit to this beautiful town in Tuscany by sampling some traditional Lucca dishes.
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