Piazza dell'Anfiteatro — Attraction in Lucca

A Serendipitous Discovery: Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, Lucca

Wandering through the quaint streets of Lucca, a charming city nestled within Tuscany's embrace, one may stumble upon a treasure that is Piazza dell'Anfiteatro. Our recent visit there unfolded as an enchanting tale that began almost without us realizing it.

Meandering through a labyrinth of narrow alleys, our eyes were drawn to an inconspicuous bicycle leaning against a sun-kissed wall. As we followed the path, the narrow passage suddenly gave way to an unexpected revelation—a magnificent oval square, encircled by charming, pastel-hued buildings.

It was as if we had stepped into a different world, one that whispered secrets of a time long past. For Piazza dell'Anfiteatro is not merely a picturesque spot; it stands on the very ground that once hosted a grand Roman amphitheatre.

The history of this square is as rich as its appearance is delightful. Built in the 1st century AD, the amphitheatre once resonated with the cheers of spectators, enthralled by gladiatorial battles and theatrical performances. Though the original structure has since given way to residential buildings, the Piazza still retains its characteristic oval shape, a nod to its glorious past.

Our experience was elevated to an almost ethereal level when the sweet strains of an accordion began to fill the air, playing lilting local tunes. It was as if the square itself was welcoming us, wrapping us in its warm embrace.

The Piazza dell'Anfiteatro is more than just a historic site; it's a living, breathing entity that continues to pulse with life. Restaurants and cafes, housed within the buildings that trace the outline of the old amphitheatre, beckon with the aromas of Italian cuisine. Artists and musicians lend a soulful touch, creating an atmosphere that's both vibrant and soothing.

As we sat at one of the restaurants, sipping on fine Tuscan wine and taking in the scenery, the Piazza seemed to speak to us. It told us stories of battles and celebrations, of everyday life and extraordinary events. It shared with us the very essence of Lucca, a city that elegantly balances its rich history with a zest for the present.

Our visit to Piazza dell'Anfiteatro was not planned; it was a delightful surprise, a serendipitous encounter that left us enamored. It is a place that beckons you to linger, to explore, and to immerse yourself in its multifaceted charm. A visit to Lucca would be incomplete without a stroll through this splendid square, a gem that captures both the heart and...

This is a beautiful square with a great atmosphere. Today it is one of the favorite places for tourists in the historic center of Lucca, but Piazza Anfiteatro has an ancient and glorious past behind it. The name alone already says what its original function was. The amphitheater and the theater were built by the Romans in Lucca between the 1st-2nd century AD. As was the case for every city they founded, the theater, reserved for the wealthier classes, was built within the walls (in Lucca its remains are where the church of Sant'Agostino is located) while the amphitheater, due of the shows that took place there, such as the fights between gladiators in which even the lowest social classes could attend, were located outside the walls, both to facilitate the movement of spectators from outside the city and for the fear of popular revolts. Over the centuries, the amphitheater had various uses: from a quarry for the material, it became a deposit for salt, a powder keg and even a prison, until the arrival of the architect Lorenzo Nottolini appointed Royal Architect in 1818 by the Bourbons. At the time of Carlo Lodovico Nottolini he carried out his most important urban interventions in Lucca, including the complete restoration of the Piazza Anfiteatro which was to be completed in 1838. He eliminated all the buildings that were in the ancient arena, delimiting the elliptical perimeter of the area with the creation of the external road that runs along it (via dell'Anfiteatro) and leaving only the houses that traced the original amphitheater, he created new doors for access to the square that thus became four and in the new space the city food market was positioned, which was previously in San Michele. In 1972 the market was moved to the Carmine church and the square was finally free from any...

Lucca is one of those places that doesn’t try to impress you at first glance—it quietly grows on you with its charm and authenticity. Located just a short drive from Pisa, it offers a much calmer, more genuine atmosphere. What makes Lucca truly special are its perfectly preserved medieval walls, which now serve as a leafy promenade encircling the historic center. Walking or cycling the walls provides a unique perspective of the city’s rooftops, gardens, and bell towers. Inside the walls, you’ll find a maze of narrow streets, inviting piazzas, Romanesque churches, and elegant Renaissance buildings. A standout is the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, built on the site of a Roman amphitheater—the oval shape is still clearly visible and creates a unique setting that’s both historic and intimate. Lucca is also known as the city of music (birthplace of composer Giacomo Puccini), of crafts, and of quiet cafes tucked into peaceful corners. It may not overwhelm with grandeur, but it gently captivates those who give it time. A must-visit for travelers seeking the soul of Tuscany, far...