Piazza del Salvatore
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Domus Romana Lucca: Unearthing Lucca's Roman Past
Explore 2000 years of history at Lucca's Domus Romana, an archaeological site showcasing Roman, Lombard, and Renaissance remains.
The Domus Romana Lucca, or 'House of the Child on a Dolphin,' is an archaeological site in the heart of Lucca that unveils the city's rich history spanning over 2,000 years. Discovered in 2010, this museum displays well-preserved Roman, Lombard, medieval, and Renaissance remains, offering a glimpse into the lives of Lucca's ancient inhabitants.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Domus Romana Lucca
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Monday
10:30 am-1 pm
Wednesday
10:30 am-1 pm
Thursday
10:30 am-1 pm
Friday
10:30 am-1 pm
Saturday
10:30 am-1 pm
Sunday
10:30 am-1 pm
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Getting There
Walking
The Domus Romana is located in the historical center of Lucca, easily accessible by foot from many points within the city. From the Lucca Train Station, exit the station and head southwest on Viale Giuseppe Garibaldi. Continue straight until you reach the city walls of Lucca. Once you are at the walls, turn left and follow the wall path until you reach the Porta San Pietro. From the gate, walk towards Via Cesare Battisti. Domus Romana Lucca is located at Via Cesare Battisti, 15, a few minutes' walk from the gate. Walking from the Lucca Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Martino), exit the cathedral and head south on Via Fillungo. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with Via Cesare Battisti. Turn left onto Via Cesare Battisti, and you will find Domus Romana Lucca at number 15.
Public Transport
The Domus Romana can be reached by bus. From the Lucca Train Station, take a bus to Piazza Verdi, which is near Porta Sant'Anna. From there, walk along Via Roma until you reach the intersection with Via Cesare Battisti. Turn left onto Via Cesare Battisti, and you will find Domus Romana Lucca at number 15. A single bus ticket in Lucca costs approximately €1.50 - €2. Tickets can be purchased at tobacconists, magazine booths, and some supermarkets.
Taxi
Taxis are available in Lucca. Two major taxi stands are located inside the historic walls, one at Piazza Santa Maria and the other at Piazza Napoleone. From either taxi stand, a short ride to Domus Romana on Via Cesare Battisti is possible. Taxi fares in Lucca start at €3.40, with a per kilometer charge of €1.10. A short taxi ride within the city center will likely cost a minimum of €9.00.
Parking
If driving to Lucca, it is recommended to park outside the city walls due to limited access and parking within the historic center. 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 hour and €1 for each following hour, with a daily rate of €6. Both parking lots offer bus service to the heart of the city. Parking inside the walls in blue spaces costs €0.50 to €1.50 per hour. Be aware of ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone) restrictions.
Local tips
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Visit during the week to avoid larger crowds, especially on weekends.
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Check the museum's schedule for special exhibitions or guided tours.
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Take your time to explore the details of the mosaics and frescoes; they offer a glimpse into ancient artistic techniques.
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Combine your visit with a walk around Lucca's historic walls for a full day of exploration.
Discover more about Domus Romana Lucca
Step back in time at the Domus Romana Lucca, an archaeological site that showcases Lucca's evolution through the ages. Unearthed in 2010, during renovations of a historic building, this site reveals the layers of history beneath the modern city.
The Domus Romana gets its name from a remarkable terracotta frieze depicting two 'putti' (cherubic children) riding dolphins. This image symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, with dolphins representing divine creatures that protect humans, and the Gorgon embodying evil.
Explore the remains of walls, artifacts, and structures from the Roman era (1st century BC) through the Renaissance. The museum displays architectural fragments, everyday household items, and votive offerings, providing insights into the construction techniques and daily life of Lucca's past residents. Highlights include a sestertius (Roman coin) issued by Emperor Tiberius in 14 AD and a bronze fibula from the Augustan era.
The exhibition extends into the palace's Renaissance cellars, where you can admire the large brick vaults that support the building. Informative panels throughout the site feature floor plans, graphic reconstructions, and images of the archaeological digs, enhancing your understanding of this fascinating historical site.
A brief summary to Domus Romana Lucca
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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