travelWorld: Lucca

Lucca Italy

Lucca is a city and commune in Tuscany. Its long history stretches back to Etruscan and Ancient Roman times, and the city retains pieces of Ancient architecture. Lucca's golden age was in the Gothic era just before the Renaissance, and the city contains much wonderful architecture from that era. Lucca's current defensive walls were designed by Leonardo Da Vinci and were never breached. Lucca remained an independent city state until the end of the 18th century. The church of San Frediano is the only example of Lombard architecture preserved without notable alteration, except for the façade, which dates back to the year 1200. S. Maria foris Portam, S. Michele, S. Romano, and the other churches all possess valuable works of art. The tomb of the Lucchese poet, Guidiccioni, is in the church of S. Francesco (quattrocento). The Case Guinigi and the Guinigi Tower represent a wonderful example of Medieval architecture in Lucca. The Case Guinigi were a group of mansions and towers where one of the most important families of the town, the Guinigi, lived. The enormous and beautifully preserved villas and gardens of the Lucca hills have become a major attraction for visitors to the town.

Recommended airport

Pisa Airport (PSA)

Points of interest

Nearby destinations