After passing the Badia di San Pietro and the remnants of the ancient monastic complex, leave Camaiore to enter the green Via Francigena. Winding through dense forests and jaw-dropping views, the route climbs toward the village of Montemagno, once a lookout point over the Valle della Freddana. From here, continue toward Valpromaro, along paved stretches of road, then plunge back into the forests, passing through Piazzano. The Serchio River marks your approach to Lucca, which you reach by crossing the San Pietro Bridge. Enter the “city of a hundred churches” through the ancient Porta San Donato then meander through the historic center, enclosed within the 16ᵗʰ-century walls. In the jealously guarded Cathedral of San Martino is the Volto Santo (Holy Face), a wooden crucifix linked to a tradition that tells of how Nicodemus carved this work based on the true face of Jesus. In addition, on the exterior wall of the cathedral is the mysterious labyrinth, a symbol of walking and spirituality for pilgrims.

Located in the lush Valle della Freddana, the Castle of Montemagno is one of the area’s most fascinating historical landmarks. Built in the Middle Ages, the Castle stands on a hill overlooking the surrounding valley, offering wonderful vistas of the Lucca countryside and the Apuan Alps. This ancient fort, now partially in ruins, still retains traces of its original defensive structure, with mighty walls and towers that reveal its history of defense against invasions. Over the centuries, the Castle has had several owners and undergone numerous remodeling projects but has always remained a symbol of power and resilience. Surrounded by unspoiled nature with breathtaking views, the Castle of Montemagno offers a true immersion into the past, a journey through the centuries to appreciate the beauty of this area.

The imposing wall structure that surrounds the historic center has stood the test of time to be one of the city’s most iconic features, a symbol of defense and of identity. Built between the 16ᵗʰ and 17ᵗʰ centuries, these walls create a kind of belt embracing some 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) to retain the original urban fabric. Originally conceived as a military fortification, the Walls of Lucca are today one of the most visited places in the city, not to mention one of the most peaceful and evocative. You can walk or bike atop the wall to enjoy spectacular views of the city and surrounding landscapes, from the Apuan Alps to the Lucca plain. The walls are interspersed with bastions, monumental gates and forts that testify to the grandeur of Renaissance military design. Strolling along the Walls of Lucca is a unique experience that allows you to be immersed in the city’s history and admire the contrast between the tradition and modernity that render this an important cultural and tourist center. In this context, the Via Francigena Entry Point, inaugurated in 2016, offers services for pilgrims and others to discover Lucca and the Via Francigena, further enhancing the link between the city and the path through it.

One of the most significant examples of religious architecture in Tuscany is the Cathedral. Indeed, the Cathedral of San Martino was founded in the 6ᵗʰ century by Saint Frediano (also known as Fridianus), then rebuilt between 1060 and 1070, with the consecration in 1070 by Pope Alexander II in the presence of Countess Matilda of Tuscany. Work continued until 1637, with the construction of a chapel, the Cappella del Santuario. Over the centuries, it has undergone numerous extensions and modifications that have enriched its style, mixing Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance elements. The façade of the Cathedral is a masterpiece of medieval art, featuring a series of arches and loggias alternating with masterfully carved decorations, even presenting a series of sculptures depicting biblical scenes and religious symbols.

The interior of the church is equally impressive, with a majestic nave and numerous side chapels housing valuable artworks. One of the main attractions of the Cathedral of San Martino is the Holy Face, a wooden crucifix that legend says was carved by Nicodemus, now one of the most important objects of veneration for pilgrims.

Piazza dell’Anfiteatro is one of the most fascinating and original squares in Lucca. It was built on the ancient site of a Roman amphitheater, dating back to the second century AD. Although the original amphitheater was demolished in the Middle Ages, its oval shape is still perfectly visible in the architecture of today’s Piazza, which retains its characteristic curved perimeter.
The current configuration of the Piazza is due to Architect Lorenzo Nottolini who, in 1830, freed the center of the ancient arena from the buildings that had accumulated over the centuries and designed the Via dell’Anfiteatro. The Piazza is a place teeming with life. Every inch tells the story of Lucca and its evolution, while the many restaurants, stores, and cafés create a lively and welcoming atmosphere.

One of Lucca’s most famous monuments, the structure of the Guinigi Tower stands imposingly in the city’s historic center. At about 150 feet (45 meters) high, it was built in the 14ᵗʰ century by the powerful Guinigi family that dominated the city at that time. 

The uniqueness of the Guinigi Tower is that the holm oaks of a hanging garden grow, a true unique feature. The view from the top of the tower is spectacular. You can see the entire city of Lucca, its historic walls, the Apuan Alps and even the surrounding hills. The climb to the Guinigi Tower is one of the most exhilarating experiences for visitors to Lucca, who can appreciate the beauty of the city from up high. The tower is also a symbol of the power and wealth of the Guinigi family, which had this monument built to assert the clan’s position of prestige.

One of the most prized and appreciated gastronomic products of Tuscany. This extra-virgin olive oil, produced exclusively in the province of Lucca, is recognized for its quality and unique organoleptic characteristics derived from the local territory. PDO Lucca extra virgin olive oil  is distinguished by its fruity flavor with notes of almond and fresh grass, rendering it ideal for use in recipes both as-is and in the preparation of typical Tuscan dishes. The production of this oil follows strict quality and sustainability standards that respect the agricultural traditions of the area. Hand-picked in October and November, the olives are processed into oil using methods that preserve the organoleptic properties as much as possible.
Lucca’s extra-virgin olive oil ultimately tells the story and culture of this land, fruit of centuries of agricultural tradition. Its authentic and genuine flavor is a real treasure to be savored.