Lucca Cathedral

Welcome to the Piazza San Martino, the spiritual heart of Lucca. As you stand before the Duomo di San Martino, you are witnessing a complex architectural narrative that began in the 6th century, founded by San Frediano, the…

As you stand directly in front of the cathedral, the most striking architectural curiosity becomes apparent: the facade is noticeably asymmetrical. If you look at the three great arches of the portico, you will see that the…

Before moving inside, look closely at the pillar on the right side of the portico, near the entrance to the bell tower. Carved into the stone is a small, enigmatic labyrinth, accompanied by a Latin inscription that references the…

As you move toward the central portal, you encounter the work of one of the greatest sculptors of the 13th century: Nicola Pisano. The reliefs here represent a pinnacle of the Romanesque style, showing the first stirrings of the…

Stepping inside the cathedral, the atmosphere shifts dramatically. While the exterior is Romanesque, the interior was largely rebuilt in the 14th century in a soaring Gothic style. …

Located in the sacristy is what many consider to be the most beautiful work of art in Lucca: the tomb of Ilaria del Carretto. This marble masterpiece was commissioned by Paolo Guinigi, the lord of Lucca, following the tragic…

For those with the energy, a climb up the cathedral's bell tower offers a spectacular reward. Standing 60 meters tall, this 12th-century structure is the highest tower in the city. …

As you exit the Duomo di San Martino and step back into the square, take a final look at that strange, asymmetrical facade. In many ways, this cathedral is the perfect metaphor for Lucca itself: a city that is deeply rooted in…