Lucca
Many tourists pass by Lucca on their way to Florence and find a true Tuscan gem. Lucca had been the capital of Tuscany and defended itself for over 400 years until Florence eventually won the title. A wealthy city formed from banking and the silk trade which today has made underwear an important industry. It is also fast becoming famous for olive oil and wine. Enclosed by its walls, the city reveals itself a little at a time. Only by walking the narrow streets of the historic centre can you discover the mystery and magic of a past rich in history, culture and architecture. Its ring of walls encloses dozens of tiny Romanesque churches, quiet paved streets, defensive towers, numerous museums and monuments. The city centre is closed to traffic, so the local people and tourists choose bicycles as a mode of transport, however the city is also a wonderful place to explore on foot. Medieval buildings line the peaceful streets, opening to reveal churches, tiny piazzas and many other reminders of the city’s long history.
After visiting the many attractions, visitors usually end up in the heart of the city, Via Fillungo. The city’s appealing main street is a pleasure to walk, a meeting place full of shops and cafes. At the end of the street you will find Piazza del Antiteatro, its oval shape reflecting the origins of the Roman Amphitheatre that stood here until the 12th Century. Ransacked over the centuries, the stone from the theatre was used to build the city's churches and palaces. Slum housing covered the piazza until 1830 when it was ordered to be cleared by the ruler of the city at the time, Marie Louise. It was then that the original shape was revealed, a reminder of the city’s Roman heritage. Low archways still mark the place where the gladiators would have entered the arena. Today the piazza is a collection of charming ramshackle buildings, featuring many small boutique type shops and trendy cafes – a picturesque place to stop that never ceases to amaze and fascinate its visitors. No trip to Lucca is complete without walking at least part of the way round its impressive ramparts with tree lined promenades offering some fabulous views of the city. Lucca is one of the few Italian cities to have preserved intact its own enclosing walls. For the courteous people of Lucca the walls represent centuries of historic battles, fought to preserve their independence and identity. The city hosts a number of events during the summer. A large antiques market takes place in the streets around the Duomo every third weekend of the month. The annual summer music festival livens the main piazza during June/ July with a host of internationally renowned bands and artists. A city rich in history, hospitality and beauty combined with a sweet attitude to living, Lucca never fails to impress and to miss this opportunity would be a certain shame.
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