Mura di Lucca: A Walk Through History

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Discover Lucca from its magnificent Renaissance walls: walk, cycle, and enjoy breathtaking views of the city and Tuscan countryside.

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Mura di Lucca

The Mura di Lucca, or Walls of Lucca, are a remarkable example of Renaissance-era fortifications that encircle the city of Lucca in Tuscany, Italy. These well-preserved walls, stretching over 4 kilometers, have been transformed into a pedestrian promenade and public park, offering stunning views and a unique way to experience the city.

A brief summary to Mura di Lucca

Porta san Donato, Via delle Mura Urbane, Lucca, Province of Lucca, 55100, IT
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Monday 10 am-6 pm
Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
Thursday 10 am-6 pm
Friday 10 am-6 pm
Saturday 10 am-6 pm
Sunday 10 am-6 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Mura di Lucca.

Rent a bike to cycle the entire 4.2 km circuit of the walls for a fun and efficient way to see the city.
Visit early in the morning or on a weekday to avoid crowds, especially during the summer months.
Take time to explore the various gates and bastions along the walls, each offering unique views and historical insights.
Check out the infopoint at the Porta San Donato Nuova Castle for more information about the walls' history.

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Getting There

Walking

The Mura di Lucca are easily accessible on foot from anywhere within the city center. From the Lucca train station, exit the station and walk straight ahead towards Porta San Pietro, one of the main gates into the city. Pass through the gate and you'll find steps or ramps leading up to the walls. Walking along the walls is free and allows you to explore the city from a unique vantage point.
Public Transport

Lucca's bus station is located in Piazzale Verdi, just inside the city walls near Porta Sant'Anna. From the bus station, you can easily access the walls by walking towards any of the nearby gates and ascending the steps or ramps. Bus tickets cost around €1.20 for 70 minutes.
Taxi

Taxis are available at Piazza Santa Maria and Piazza Napoleone. A short taxi ride from the train station or any point within the city center to one of the gates of the Mura di Lucca will typically cost between €10-€15. From there, you can easily access the walls on foot.
Parking

If arriving by car, it's best to park outside the city walls as the center is a limited traffic zone. Several parking lots are available, such as Park Carducci (€1/hour, €5 daily) and Park Palatucci (€0.20 for the first hour, €1/hour after, €6 daily). From these parking areas, you can walk to the nearest gate or take a bus into the city center (€1.20 for a 70-minute ticket).

Discover more about Mura di Lucca

The Mura di Lucca are more than just a defensive structure; they are a living part of the city's identity and a testament to its rich history. Originally built between the 16th and 17th centuries to protect Lucca from outside threats, the walls were never actually used in battle. Instead, they served as a deterrent, a symbol of Lucca's independence and resilience. Today, the Mura di Lucca offer a unique experience for visitors. The top of the walls has been converted into a wide, tree-lined avenue, perfect for walking, cycling, or simply enjoying the panoramic views. As you stroll along the walls, you'll be treated to picturesque scenes of Lucca's medieval towers, churches, and the surrounding countryside. The walls also feature impressive gates, such as Porta San Donato, and eleven bastions that offer panoramic views of the city center. Beneath the walls, a network of tunnels and passages once used for military purposes now offers a glimpse into Lucca's defensive history. The walls have a total length of 4.2 kilometers and a height of 12 meters. The construction of the walls began in 1504 and ended in 1648. The walls have three layers of construction history: the first one was built by the Romans and lasted until about 1000AD; a second wall was added as Lucca began to grow known as the Medieval Wall; the last and current wall was built in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. The Mura di Lucca are a must-see for any visitor to Lucca, offering a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're taking a leisurely walk, cycling along the ramparts, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the walls provide an unforgettable experience.