Lucca (located 2 hours west of Florence) is a city in Tuscany, Central Italy. It is also the capital of the Province of Lucca and is famous for its intact Renaissance-era city walls. Unlike many cities built with high walls for security, Lucca was built with an impressive series of ramparts and canals. Walking or biking along the ramparts are a great way to see this beautiful city. The plazas, narrow streets and Renaissance architecture, make this a classic Italian city.
Why do I call this Italy's Hidden Gem - because it is beautiful, and not packed with hoards of tourists that you experience in the streets & plazas of Florence and Siena.
The Torre Guinigi is the most important tower in Lucca. It is a typical example of local Romanesque-Gothic architecture. The tower dates from the 1300s when a number of wealthy families were building bell towers within the walls of Lucca as status symbols.
Piazza dell'Anfiteatro is a public square in the northeast part of Lucca. A very popular location, as many outdoor cafes ring the square.
As it turns out, Lucca provides an amazing backdrop for black and white photos. Check out some of these photos - the first one is of Torre Guinigi
Arrivederci (goodbye) Italy.
Thanks for following me,
Lance
