Lucca is a walled city and has such an interesting vibe. Our friends JimH and Ann lived there before they lived in Siena and spoke of it fondly. It's a short one(ish) hour train ride from Florence. We had already planned to visit as it's the birthplace of Puccini but boy did we underestimate it's power.
Our first stop was breakfast to 'protein up' for the visit to Chiesa dei Santi Giovanni e Reparata and the accompanying Campanili (bell tower). I might have mentioned I'm (Stacey) afraid of heights so certain climbs - like the Duomo in Florence - are not appealing to me. However, this one was only 227 stairs (give or take 5) and so I 'medicated up' with some antianxiety meds and headed up. The first 100(ish) steps are set in stone and a fairly easy climb. It leads to a large landing and then provides SEE THROUGH STAIRS AND RISERS for the remainder. I did NOT enjoy seeing what I just knew will be the fall to my death to the equivalent of 10 stories.
Fear notwithstanding, the meds allowed my brain to tell the voice to f*ck off and concentrate on the task at hand. The view was totally worth it. Pics or it didn't happen; amiright? There were four people up when we got there and we met a lovely couple from England who entered after us. Otherwise, the stairs were unimpeded by traffic. This works well for me because I wasn't pressed for time and could mute the voice. As usual, my stupid brain was, well, stupid, and we descended without having to pass anyone or plunge to our deaths.
The church itself is lovely and there is an entire archeological museum below (which we failed to see). The altar and pulpit are bronze reliefs.
Religious iconography isn't my (Stacey) favorite but I can appreciate fine craftsmanship when I see it. And also - how heavy is that crown - actual weight, we all know the metaphorical weight is incalculable.
Ever since seeing the Book of Kells, I am now taken with the beauty of other texts that have been enhanced with art.
Next up was the home of Puccini which would not have been possible without the dedication of his daughter in law, painted here by Cesar Monti, who died a few weeks before the opening.
Notes from the maestro on his music.
Costumes from Tosca
Costume from Madame Butterfly
After a small snackie, we decided to walk the walls of the city - appx 4km. It was a great way to enjoy the weather and appreciate the City that is Lucca. It's elevated so you get panoramic views. There's plenty of room to walk or bike your way around. Highly recommend.
Since, Lucca is the birthplace of Puccini and we ended our day with an aperitivo and then listening to "Puccini and Verdi" Opera selections in a small church. After filling up on the extraordinary music, we were able to take the last train back to Florence.
OH, and what city wouldn't be complete without a door and street art ;)
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