Lucca: Renaissance walls and historic Tuscan city
Lucca retains a compact center enclosed by an intact Renaissance city wall. The walls, transformed into a tree-lined promenade, allow you to read the streets, towers and gardens from above. The city had a long political autonomy and a strong commercial and musical tradition.
History and identity
The urban network retains Roman traces, visible in the elliptical shape of Piazza dell'Anfiteatro. In the Middle Ages Lucca prospered with silk and European relations. The current walls were built between the 16th and 17th centuries to respond to new military techniques, without then suffering destructive sieges.
What to see
San Martino, San Michele in Foro and San Frediano show different phases of Lucca Romanesque. The Guinigi tower has a hanging garden of holm oaks; the Tower of the Hours offers another climb. Puccini's birthplace commemorates the composer. A complete tour of the walls requires time and attention for cyclists.
Understand the place
The center is largely flat, but the towers and bell towers involve many steps. Bicycles and pedestrians share the walls. Musical events change access and crowding. It is best to choose a single tower and control the entrances to the churches, leaving room for religious functions.
Prepare the visit
Times, access conditions and transportation may change. Before the trip, check the official pages linked from the source, protect the heritage and leave the entrances to the homes free. Source in local language.