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Monument · Lucca, Toscana
Mura di Lucca
The Renaissance walls that encircle the entire centre, with about 4 km of tree-lined promenade on top, for walking or cycling.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Mura di Lucca
The Mura di Lucca, built between 1544 and 1648, completely surround the historic centre. They are the city's third and final wall, after the Roman and the medieval ones, and were designed to withstand artillery, with brick walls about 12 metres high and eleven bastions. The city was never besieged, and the walls were never used in war.
In the 19th century, Duchess Maria Luisa of Bourbon turned the top of the walls into a public promenade, planting rows of trees. The complete route is about 4.2 km, is flat and closed to traffic, and is used by locals for walking, running and cycling.
From the top you can see the roofs and towers of the centre on one side and, on the other, the lawns that separate the wall from the new town, with the Alpi Apuane and the hills in the background. In 1812 the walls also protected the town from a major flood of the river Serchio, when the gates were closed.
Some bastions have underground passages and rooms that open on special occasions. The gates of San Pietro, Santa Maria and Sant'Anna are among the most used to enter the centre.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 30 minutes by bike for the full circuit and one to one and a half hours on foot.
Best time
Early in the morning or late in the afternoon, with low light and fewer people. The trees provide shade in summer, from June to August.
How to get there
From Lucca station, cross the road and enter through the Porta San Pietro; there are ramps and steps to access the walls at several points along the route.
Tip
Bicycles are rented near the gates and in the centre. Respect pedestrians: the promenade is shared and heavily used by locals.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Mura di Lucca
How long does the walk around Lucca's walls take?
About 30 minutes by bike without stops, and between one hour and an hour and a half on foot. The route is just over 4 km.
Is there a charge for the walk on the walls?
No. The top of the walls is a public park, and there is no entrance fee.
Can you go with a child?
Yes. The route is flat, car-free, and rental shops have children's bikes and bikes with child seats.
Were the walls ever used in war?
No. They were built for defense but never faced a siege. In the 19th century they became a public promenade.