Piazza dell'Anfiteatro travel guide

Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, located in the heart of Lucca, is a historical treasure with an intriguing past.

Tracing back to the 2nd century AD, the site originally functioned as a roman amphitheater, hosting thrilling gladiator games and public spectacles. As the Roman Empire fell, the amphitheater's structure was repurposed into a fortress, and later a residential area.

In the Middle Ages, the elliptical shape of the square was preserved by the houses built directly on the remains of the amphitheater. This exceptional layout, unique to Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, contributes to its distinct charm and appeal.

The square was rediscovered in the 19th century by architect Lorenzo Nottolini, who decided to restore its original form, still visible today. Now, the Piazza is a vibrant center of the city, filled with quaint shops, delightful cafes, and bustling market stalls. Every visit to this historical gem offers a glimpse into its layered past, making it a must-see destination for any visitor to Lucca.

One of the most distinctive features of Piazza dell'Anfiteatro is its elliptical shape, which mirrors the ancient Roman amphitheatre that once stood on the site. This historical layout is further emphasized by the way the buildings around the piazza follow the curve of the original amphitheatre, creating a unique and immersive architectural experience.

A singular entrance and exit point, known as Porta dell’Anfiteatro, offers the only passage in and out of the piazza, reinforcing the enclosure-like structure of an amphitheatre. This feature makes the piazza a calm and peaceful oasis away from the bustling city outside.

The vibrant, ochre-colored buildings that surround the piazza also make it stand out. Many of these buildings house quaint cafes, charming shops, and local residences, offering a lively and authentic Italian ambiance.

At the center of the piazza, the cobblestone paving is often used as a venue for concerts and events, drawing on the piazza's historical roots as a place of public spectacle and further enhancing its unique charm.

Lucca is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Lucca offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Lucca and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Piazza Napoleone, St Martin Cathedral, Guinigi Tower, Porta San Pietro, and Mura di Lucca.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Lucca has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Lucca, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Italy!

Piazza dell'Anfiteatro is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Lucca, Italy. If you're flying in, Florence Airport is approximately 34.8 miles (56 km) away from Lucca. From there, you can easily reach Piazza dell'Anfiteatro by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Lucca, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, which is located 0.2 miles (0.4 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, 55100 Lucca LU, Italy, Italy.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Piazza dell'Anfiteatro!

The best time to explore Piazza dell'Anfiteatro is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). These months offer a pleasant climate, with temperatures typically ranging between 15-25°C, which is ideal for outdoor sightseeing and dining at the surrounding restaurants. Moreover, these periods usually witness fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months, offering a more relaxed and intimate experience. A unique event worth noting is the Lucca Summer Festival in July, where one can enjoy live music performances set against the spectacular backdrop of the Piazza. However, this period tends to be busier, so advanced planning is recommended. Early mornings or late evenings are also a good time to visit, when the lighting adds a magical touch to the architecture and you can avoid the midday sun. Regardless of when you choose to visit, the Piazza dell'Anfiteatro is sure to offer an unforgettable experience.

Conveniently explore Piazza dell'Anfiteatro and plenty more captivating attractions in Lucca by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Piazza dell'Anfiteatro and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Lucca has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Piazza dell'Anfiteatro below.

Aside from Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, Lucca is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Lucca, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Piazza Napoleone, St Martin Cathedral, and Guinigi Tower.

Piazza Napoleone is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Lucca, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 10,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Piazza Napoleone is P. Za Napoleone, 55100 Lucca LU, Italy.

Another appreciated attraction in Lucca is St Martin Cathedral. Like Piazza Napoleone, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars among 9,100 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this church is Piazza Antelminelli, 55100 Lucca LU, Italy.

Guinigi Tower is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Lucca. This establishment and top attraction in Lucca has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,600 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Via Sant'Andrea, 41, 55100 Lucca LU, Italy.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Lucca below.