Lucques Walking audio tour 1h30 and 17 audio comments

A detail must have caught your attention on the façade of the Basilica of San Frediano, founded in the 6th century and then rebuilt in the 12th century.

You will quickly discover that in Lucques every turn of the street is a new discovery. You are plunged directly into the heart of the city's commercial artery.

Upon entering the Amphitheater square, you may still hear the echo of gladiatorial combats resounding.

The Mercato del Carmine is a historic building located on Piazza del Carmine, whose history dates back nearly a thousand years.

The Guinigi tower is also known as the hanging garden of Lucques. 45-meter high, this medieval tower built at the end of the 14th century by the powerful Guinigi family

The architecture of the Bernardini Palace denotes with its Mannerist style inspired by the great Florentine residences. Indeed, its imposing facade is distinguished by its rustic stones on the ground floor

It is impossible not to admire the imposing St. Martin Cathedral that dominates Piazza Antelminelli.

Turn around so you don't miss the Church of San Giovanni e Reparata, which was the city's first cathedral until the 8th century.

This imposing monument houses the Théâtre du Giglio, one of the rare examples of a public theater that has operated almost without interruption in the same building for over three centuries.

Welcome to Place Napoléon, don't look for the statue in tribute to Napoleon... There isn't one! It is Maria Luisa di Borbone, Duchess of Lucques, who reigns as mistress here.

How not to talk about the fortifications of Lucques?! Victor-Emmanuel II, first king of unified Italy and present right in front of you, will surely tell you that they surround the historic center over 4.2 kilometers.

I suggest a little off-the-beaten-path excursion before continuing your journey along the Via del Pallone.

I'm taking advantage of this little stroll through the alleys of Lucques to give you some ideas for must-see visits to complete your discovery of the city and its surroundings...

In the center of Piazza Cittadella stands the bronze statue of Giacomo Puccini, installed just a few steps from his birthplace, which is now a museum.

The stone lacework facade of the church of San Michele in Foro is breathtaking, isn't it? But let's go back to his name to give you time to contemplate it.

Try to guess what Torre delle Ore means in Italian. Is it the Golden Tower or the Clock Tower? Well done if you chose the second option!

Let's take this stroll through the Via Fillungo to review Tuscan gastronomy, a simple cuisine elevated to the rank of art!