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Chiesa dei Santi Giovanni e Reparata: Lucca's Ancient Heart

Discover Lucca's captivating past at its first cathedral, the Chiesa dei Santi Giovanni e Reparata, an archaeological treasure in Piazza San Giovanni.

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The Chiesa dei Santi Giovanni e Reparata, located in Lucca's Piazza San Giovanni, is a historic church and archaeological site. Originally Lucca's first cathedral, it showcases Romanesque architecture and layers of history dating back to the Roman era. Visitors can explore the church, its adjacent baptistery, and the fascinating archaeological excavations beneath.

A brief summary to Chiesa dei Santi Giovanni e Reparata

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you plan to explore the archaeological site beneath the church.
  • Purchase a combined ticket to visit the Chiesa dei Santi Giovanni e Reparata, the Cathedral of Lucca, and other related sites for a comprehensive experience.
  • Check the church's schedule for concerts or cultural events, which are often held within its atmospheric interior.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Lucca Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Martino), exit the cathedral and head towards Piazza San Giovanni. Walk straight for about 200 meters, and as you enter the piazza, the Chiesa dei Santi Giovanni e Reparata will be directly in front of you, on the opposite side of the square. No costs are associated with this final approach.

  • Public Transport

    The nearest bus stop to Chiesa dei Santi Giovanni e Reparata is within a short walking distance. From Lucca Train Station, take a bus towards the city center. Get off at a stop near Piazza Verdi or Piazza Santa Maria. From either of these points, it is a short walk to Piazza San Giovanni. A single bus ticket costs approximately €1.50.

  • Parking

    If driving, parking outside the city walls is recommended, as the historic center is largely pedestrianized. Several parking lots are available outside the walls, including Park Carducci and Park Palatucci. Park Carducci costs €1 per hour with a daily rate of €5. Park Palatucci costs €0.20 for the first 60 minutes and €1 for each following hour, with a daily rate of €6. From these parking areas, you can either walk to Piazza San Giovanni (approximately 10-15 minutes) or take a local bus.

Unlock the Best of Chiesa dei Santi Giovanni e Reparata

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Discover more about Chiesa dei Santi Giovanni e Reparata

The Chiesa dei Santi Giovanni e Reparata, nestled in the heart of Lucca, stands as a window into the city's rich past. This church, located in Piazza San Giovanni, served as Lucca's first cathedral. Its origins trace back to the 5th century, built upon an area inhabited since Roman times. The site reveals layers of history, from its early Christian basilica and baptistery to its transformations through the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Excavations beneath the church have unearthed a captivating archaeological area, showcasing the foundations of the early basilica and the adjacent baptistery. These excavations reveal five levels of history, dating back to a Roman domus from the 1st century AD. Visitors can explore the remains of Roman baths, early Christian baptisteries, and Longobard-era tombs. The church itself has undergone numerous reconstructions, most notably in the 12th and 16th centuries. The interior features a Romanesque basilica design with three naves, supported by columns with composite capitals. The 17th-century Baroque chapel dedicated to St. Ignatius adds another layer to the church's artistic heritage. Today, the Chiesa dei Santi Giovanni e Reparata serves as a museum and venue for cultural events, inviting visitors to appreciate its medieval architecture, frescoes, and sacred furnishings.

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