Piazza dell'Anfiteatro
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 1 January 2024
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The Piazza dell'Anfiteatro is a unique square in the city of Lucca in Tuscany. It takes its name from the Roman Amphitheatre that used to occupy the same site but was razed to the ground in 1830.
Construction of the square involved much of the structure of the amphitheatre to create a quite unique space: an elliptical piazza with buildings of irregular heights facing each other. |
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Piazza dell'Anfiteatro attained second place on the Italy Review list of Top Ten Piazzas in Italy, while the city of Lucca itself is one of the most beautiful in the country with its walkable walls, historic cathedral and the quirky Torre Guinigi.
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Profile
The Piazza dell'Anfiteatro is a unique and charming square located in the heart of Lucca, a beautiful city in Tuscany, Italy. It is one of the most iconic and picturesque spots in Lucca, drawing both locals and tourists to its historic ambiance and vibrant atmosphere.
Lucca is a popular tourist destination in Tuscany and can be easily reached by train or car from major cities like Florence or Pisa. Once in Lucca, the Piazza dell'Anfiteatro is within walking distance from the city center.
Lucca is a popular tourist destination in Tuscany and can be easily reached by train or car from major cities like Florence or Pisa. Once in Lucca, the Piazza dell'Anfiteatro is within walking distance from the city center.
History
The Piazza dell'Anfiteatro has a fascinating history dating back to Roman times. It was originally the site of an ancient Roman amphitheater built in the 2nd century AD.
The amphitheater was used for gladiator contests and other public spectacles. Over the centuries, the structure fell into disrepair, and much of the original amphitheater was dismantled to reuse its materials for other buildings in Lucca.
During the Middle Ages, the area was transformed into a residential neighborhood with houses built along the remains of the amphitheater's elliptical shape. Today, the surviving buildings form the outer walls of the piazza, creating a unique circular layout that reflects the outline of the ancient amphitheater.
The amphitheater was used for gladiator contests and other public spectacles. Over the centuries, the structure fell into disrepair, and much of the original amphitheater was dismantled to reuse its materials for other buildings in Lucca.
During the Middle Ages, the area was transformed into a residential neighborhood with houses built along the remains of the amphitheater's elliptical shape. Today, the surviving buildings form the outer walls of the piazza, creating a unique circular layout that reflects the outline of the ancient amphitheater.
Key features
- Architecture: The square's characteristic circular shape is its main attraction. The facades of the buildings that encircle the piazza have retained their medieval charm, with their warm pastel colors and characteristic arches.
- Cafes and Restaurants: The piazza is an excellent place to relax and enjoy a meal or a coffee at one of the many cafes and restaurants. Sitting at an outdoor table, visitors can soak in the ambiance and admire the unique architectural setting.
- Shopping: The area around the Piazza dell'Anfiteatro is dotted with charming shops, boutiques, and artisanal stores, offering visitors an opportunity to browse for souvenirs, local products, and handmade crafts.
- Events and Festivals: The square hosts various events and festivals throughout the year. These events often include concerts, markets, and cultural celebrations, adding to the lively and inviting atmosphere of the piazza.
Piazza dell'Anfiteatro
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City: Lucca
Province: Lucca Region: Tuscany Close by: Torre Guinigi, Lucca Cathedral Recommended accommodation: Hotel Alla Corte degli Angeli |
