Officially known as the Cattedrale di San Martino, or simply the Duomo, Lucca’s main church was originally built in the 11th century, though today’s version dates from three centuries later. A visit here is a must during walking or bike tours of the historic center, as the cathedral is home to some of the city’s most important art, architecture, and local lore. Explore the church, bell tower, and museum with a guide to fully appreciate its unique artistic and historic significance, along with other top attractions in the city like the Guinigi Tower, the Church of San Michele in Foro, and the historic city walls.
Lucca is one of the most popular day trips from Florence or shore excursions from Livorno, and it’s easy to combine a tour of the city with a stop in nearby Pisa. Opt for a food and wine tour of Lucca’s city center to combine sightseeing with tastings of Tuscan specialties, or, for a unique introduction to the city, a music tour exploring theaters and other landmarks connected to its musical history.
Lucca’s Duomo is on Piazza San Martino in the center of Lucca’s walled old town, a short walk from the train station. You can catch a direct train from Florence to Lucca, though a tour or shore excursion that includes transportation is the best option for visiting Lucca and Pisa in a single day.
On the 13th of September, the Volto Santo is carried through the streets of Lucca in an impressive torch procession, kicking off the city’s most important historic festival that includes costumed pageants, fireworks, and a large outdoor market.
The Holy Face of Lucca (Volto Santo) is a wooden rendering of Christ on the cross, said to have been carved by Jesus’ contemporary, Nicodemus. The Volto Santo currently on display in a specially built marble chapel inside Lucca’s Duomo is a 13th-century copy, but it’s just as precious to the town. The Volto Santo is celebrated each year with a procession and festival beginning on September 13th.