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Chiesa di San Michele in Foro: A Testament to Lucca's History

Explore Lucca's Roman Catholic basilica, a stunning example of Pisan-Luccan architecture on the site of an ancient Roman forum.

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The Chiesa di San Michele in Foro, a Roman Catholic basilica in Lucca, stands on the site of the ancient Roman forum. Its stunning Pisan-Luccan Romanesque facade and rich history make it a must-see attraction.

A brief summary to Chiesa di San Michele in Foro

  • Monday 9 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-6 pm
  • Friday 9 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and appreciate the architecture.
  • Look for the statue of Madonna salutis portus on the facade's lower right corner.
  • Explore Piazza San Michele, the lively square surrounding the church.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Piazza Napoleone, walk north along Via Fillungo, Lucca's main street. Continue straight, and you'll arrive at Piazza San Michele and the church in approximately 5-10 minutes. The walk is flat and easy.

  • Public Transport

    The nearest bus stop is Piazza Verdi, a short walk from the church. Several bus lines connect Piazza Verdi to other parts of Lucca. A single bus ticket costs around €1.20 if purchased in advance or €2 if purchased on board.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available at Piazza Santa Maria and Piazza Napoleone. A short taxi ride from the Lucca train station to the church costs approximately €9-€20, depending on traffic and time of day. The base fare is €4.30, with an additional charge of €1.70 per km.

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Discover more about Chiesa di San Michele in Foro

The Chiesa di San Michele in Foro is one of Lucca's most enchanting historical structures. Built on the site of the ancient Roman forum, the church's origins date back to 795 AD. Pope Alexander II ordered its rebuilding in 1070, and the facade was completed in the 13th century. The facade is a masterpiece of Pisan-Luccan Romanesque architecture, characterized by its height, sculptures, and inlays. The lower part features blind arcades, while the upper part has four tiers of small loggias. At the summit stands a 4-meter statue of St. Michael the Archangel. Legend says that a diamond sparkles on the angel's finger on bright days. The bell tower, constructed between the 12th and 14th centuries, showcases mullioned windows. Inside, the church has a nave and two aisles, separated by monolithic columns with Corinthian capitals. Artworks include a terracotta Madonna with Child by Andrea della Robbia and a panel by Filippino Lippi depicting four saints. The body of San Davino, an Armenian pilgrim, is preserved under the high altar.

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