Lucca, a relatively small town in Northern Tuscany, is perhaps most famous for the remarkable walls that still encircle it, enclosing an embarassment of fine medieval architecture. Englishman John Ruskin was moved to say that he 'discovered' architecture in Lucca; he saw, for the first time, what medieval builders were, what they had achieved, and "thereupon literally began the study of architecture".
The walls were built (during the 16th and 17th centuries) to defend Lucca against the old enemy, Florence, but were never actually put to the test. Somehow they managed to survive the town's outward expansion, and are now much loved - and fiercely protected - by the inhabitants of Lucca. They are the perfect viewpoint from which to admire the town, ideal for a stroll or bike ride, a full circuit being roughly 4 kilometres.
Lucca was founded by the Etruscans, becoming a Roman colony in 180 BC; the town centre preserves the Roman street plan, and the lovely Piazza San Michele is to be found on the site of the original forum. By and large traffic free, the centre of town is an enchanting maze of small streets and picturesque squares, a place that, for once, truly merits being labelled 'unspoilt'. Hire a bicycle and see Lucca as the Lucchese do, stopping off for a timely espresso to fire you along towards the next photo-opportunity.
Lucca has a mouth-watering choice of restaurants, both within the walls and scattered around the surrounding hills. Said hills produce what many claim is the finest olive oil in the world, as well as a wide range of wines that have made enormous bounds forward in quality in recent years.
To the left you'll find a selection of Lucca hotels, just to whet your appetite.
See also Lucca hotels (full listings) and our Lucca hotel map.
