Lucca, Tuscany, Italy

 
The first thing you will see arriving in Lucca are the town walls which are very well preserved and still today surround all the old town. Lucca is one of only three towns in Italy entirely surrounded by walls.

 
 
Lucca's origins date back to the Ligurian, Etruscan and Roman times. There are still remarkable traces of the old walls and the amphitheatre from 200AD. Lucca, the city of "a hundred churches", has preserved intact the ancient mystery of its streets, squares, palaces and towers. Rich in history, the charming old-town centre is completely enclosed by the imposing, tree-lined, 16th century town walls.

It is unique in having four sets of preserved walls. The present walls, built in the 16th  century, were constructed as a defence against Florence but were never tested in war. Today the appearance of the walls is very attractive. Parks, gardens and an unforgettable promenade make the walls absolutely unparalleled. Bikes can be hired to cycle on the walls the full circle around Lucca. The town abounds with architectural treasures including wonderful Romanesque examples. Within the walls, Lucca is pedestrianised. Shopping is an elegant Italian experience. Eating can be sophisticated or casual but always excellent and very good value.

 

 
   


Palazzo Pfanner

    
       San Michele Church                                        Portico Duomo detail               


Gelateria in Lucca


Statue of Puccini

 
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