Piazza San Michele: Lucca's Ancient Heart
Discover Piazza San Michele in Lucca, a historic square where Roman heritage meets medieval charm, surrounded by stunning architecture and vibrant culture.
Piazza San Michele, the true heart of Lucca, stands on the site of the ancient Roman forum, at the intersection of the city's main Roman roads. Known also as Piazza delle Catene (Square of the Chains), it gets its name from the chains that connect the marble columns surrounding the square. Throughout history, Piazza San Michele has been the center of Lucca's administrative, political, and religious life. In the Middle Ages, Lucca was a silk capital of Europe, and the square became a meeting point for merchants and traders. Today, the square is surrounded by medieval buildings featuring round and pointed arches and mullioned windows. Impressive buildings such as the Palazzo Pretorio (1492) and Palazzo Gigli (1529) also border the square. The square's most prominent feature is the Church of San Michele in Foro, a Romanesque-style church with Gothic elements. The church's elaborate facade includes a large statue of Archangel Michael slaying a dragon. Legend says that on the brightest days, you can see the sparkle of an emerald embedded in the statue. The square also features a statue of Francesco Burlamacchi, a local politician from the 16th century.
Local tips
- Enjoy an aperitivo at one of the cafes surrounding the piazza for a taste of local life.
- Visit the Church of San Michele in Foro to admire its unique Romanesque architecture and the statue of Archangel Michael.
- Explore the medieval buildings around the square, including Palazzo Pretorio and Palazzo Gigli.
- Take a stroll along Via Fillungo, Lucca's main shopping street, which leads to Piazza San Michele.
A brief summary to Piazza San Michele
- P.za San Michele, Lucca, Province of Lucca, 55100, IT
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
-
Walking
Piazza San Michele is located in the heart of Lucca's historic center, easily accessible on foot from most points within the city walls. From Piazza Napoleone, walk north along Via Roma, and you'll find Piazza San Michele on your right in about 5 minutes. From the Lucca train station, exit the station and walk straight through Porta San Pietro. Follow Via San Paolino for about 15 minutes until you reach Piazza San Michele.
-
Public Transport
Lucca's public transport system consists of a network of buses. Several bus lines stop near Piazza San Michele. From the train station, you can take a bus to Piazza Verdi, which is a short walk from Piazza San Michele. A single bus ticket costs around €1.50.
-
Taxi
Taxis are available at Piazza Santa Maria and Piazza Napoleone. A taxi ride from the train station to Piazza San Michele will cost approximately €10-15. Ensure the meter is running or negotiate the fare beforehand.
-
Parking
Driving within Lucca's city walls is restricted, and parking is limited. Several parking lots are located outside the walls, including Park Carducci (€5 per day) and Park Palatucci (€6 per day). From these parking areas, you can take a bus or walk to Piazza San Michele. Parking inside the walls in blue spaces costs €1-1.50 per hour.
