Romantic Italian Escape: Discovering Lucca's Charm

Day 8: A Tuscan Detour into Art and Elegance

Today, Maximilian and I ventured beyond Lucca's city walls to explore the region's artistic heartland. I was eager to discover more about the Medici legacy and wander through gardens that have witnessed centuries of history. It was a day filled with unexpected beauty and a deeper appreciation for Tuscany's rich cultural tapestry.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at La Norma. Maximilian enjoyed a strong espresso, while I savored a cappuccino with a side of their delicious cannoli. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration. After breakfast, we hopped on a train and headed towards the Apuan Alps, our destination being Seravezza and the Palazzo Mediceo.


Discover La Norma in Lucca: A culinary haven offering exquisite Italian and seafood dishes made from fresh local ingredients.

Palazzo Mediceo Seravezza: A Glimpse into Medici Power

The Palazzo Mediceo in Seravezza, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was our first stop. Built in the 16th century by Cosimo I de' Medici, it served as a temporary residence for the Duke during his visits to the silver mines and marble quarries. As we approached the Palazzo, its imposing structure spoke volumes about the Medici's power and influence. The architecture, a blend of Renaissance design with practical functionality, was fascinating.


Explore the artistic and historical marvels of Palazzo Mediceo Seravezza, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the heart of Tuscany.

Wandering through the Palazzo, I imagined the Medici court bustling with activity. The building now houses the Town Library and the Museum of Work and Popular Traditions of Versilia. Although the chapel is no longer consecrated, it hosts small exhibitions of contemporary art during the summer. Maximilian, ever the tech enthusiast, was particularly interested in how the Medici family utilized the region's resources to fuel their empire. We learned about the marble industry's origins in Versilia, thanks to Michelangelo Buonarroti, who spent three years here.

The beauty of Tuscany lies not only in its landscapes but also in the layers of history and artistry that permeate every corner.

After immersing ourselves in Medici history, we took a leisurely lunch at Ristorante Mecenate in Lucca. The restaurant's name itself, paying homage to the famous patron of the arts, was quite fitting for our day's theme. Maximilian and I shared a delightful meal of pumpkin ravioli and ragu, savoring the authentic Italian flavors. The cozy ambiance of the restaurant added to the experience.


Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Mecenate in Lucca—where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.

Villa Reale di Marlia: A Fairytale Garden

Our afternoon was dedicated to the enchanting Villa Reale di Marlia. This opulent villa, surrounded by high walls, has a rich history, once belonging to Elisa Bonaparte Baciocchi, Napoleon's sister. The villa's origins date back to the early Middle Ages, with noble families and art patrons shaping its landscape over centuries.


Explore the enchanting Villa Reale di Marlia, a stunning historical landmark in Tuscany, offering a unique blend of art, nature, and aristocratic history.

As we stepped into the park, I felt like I had entered a fairytale. The geometrically ordered evergreen shrubs, a testament to its 17th-century structure, were a sight to behold. We strolled through the Green Theatre, an ancient creation made of yew hedges where violinist Niccolò Paganini once performed. The Lemon Garden, with over 200 citrus plants, was equally stunning.

The villa's landscape is a blend of various styles, from the Baroque courtyards created by the Orsetti brothers in 1651 to the touches added by Jacques Greber in the 20th century. Maximilian and I wandered through the Spanish Garden, admired the Liberty-style swimming pool, and enjoyed the romantic landscape with its woods, streams, and lake.

Villa Reale has undergone extensive restoration, revitalizing both the villa's interiors and the surrounding park. The blend of advanced technologies with traditional Tuscan craftsmanship was evident in every corner. We explored the Clock House, dating back to 1655, and the stables, now a cultural event space.

A Touch of Vintage Charm

Before dinner, we made a quick stop at Fat Mama Vintage in Lucca. This vintage clothing store is known for its unique selection of jeans and vintage outfits. Although I didn't find anything that fit perfectly, I enjoyed browsing through the racks and admiring the retro styles. Maximilian, surprisingly, seemed to enjoy the experience as well, commenting on the quality of the vintage denim.


Explore Fat Mama Vintage in Lucca, Italy – a treasure trove of unique vintage clothing and accessories waiting to be discovered.

Dinner at Osteria Baralla: A Culinary Delight

For dinner, we chose Osteria Baralla, a traditional Tuscan restaurant near Piazza dell'Anfiteatro. Dating back to 1860, this osteria is known for its authentic Lucchese specialties. The red brick arched vault created a cozy atmosphere as we savored dishes like Testaroli con Pesto and Tiramisù. Maximilian opted for the Gnocchi Sorrentina, which he thoroughly enjoyed. The service was prompt, and the staff spoke both English and Italian, making us feel right at home.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Osteria Baralla in Lucca - where tradition meets taste in a historic setting.

As we walked back to Albergo San Martino, I reflected on the day's adventures. From the Medici's Palazzo to the Baroque gardens of Villa Reale, we had journeyed through centuries of art and history. It was a day that reminded me of the importance of slowing down and appreciating the beauty that surrounds us.


Experience the heart of Lucca at Albergo San Martino, where comfort meets convenience in a vibrant city center setting ideal for all travelers.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Lucca's historical sites, including Casermetta San Donato and Teatro del Giglio. I'm particularly excited about visiting the Teatro del Giglio, as I've heard it's a beautiful opera house. And perhaps we'll end the day with a glass of wine at Rewine Bar, as Maximilian deserves a treat after all the historical sightseeing!

Goodnight from Lucca!