Brazil
Argentina
Chile
Colombia
Peru
Uruguay
Germany
Belgium
Spain
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Ireland
Portugal
the United Kingdom
Switzerland
Square · Lucca, Toscana
Piazza dell'Anfiteatro
Oval plaza surrounded by houses, built over the ruins of a Roman amphitheatre, whose layout is still visible in the curve of the facades.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Piazza dell'Anfiteatro
The Piazza dell'Anfiteatro stands on the site of a 2nd-century Roman amphitheatre, which lay outside the walls of the old city. After the fall of the Empire the stones were reused and, over the Middle Ages, houses were built on the tiers and arches, following the oval shape of the arena.
In the 19th century the architect Lorenzo Nottolini ordered the demolition of the buildings that filled the centre of the arena and opened the square as it appears today: a large oval space enclosed by a continuous ring of houses of varying heights and colours, with four arched passages to the surrounding streets.
On some external walls, especially along the Via dell'Anfiteatro that runs around the outside of the square, you can still see arches and stones of the Roman amphitheatre incorporated into the houses. From the top of the nearby Torre Guinigi the oval shape can be seen in its entirety.
Today the square is occupied by cafés, restaurants and shops, with tables spread over the stone paving, and serves as a meeting point in 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
15 to 30 minutes, plus time for a meal.
Best time
Early in the morning, with the square still empty for photos, or in the evening, when restaurants fill the centre.
How to get there
It's in the northern part of the centre, a short walk from Via Fillungo and about a 20-minute walk from the station.
Tip
Walk around the outside along the Via dell'Anfiteatro to see the Roman remains in the walls. Stand in the center of the square to see the full ring of facades.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Piazza dell'Anfiteatro
Can you still see the Roman amphitheatre?
Yes, in parts. The oval shape of the square follows the ancient arena, and on the exterior walls of the houses you can see Roman arches and stones.
Why is the square oval?
Because the houses were built on top of the seating of a 2nd-century Roman amphitheatre, preserving its shape.
Is it a good place to eat?
The square has many restaurants and cafés with outdoor seating. On the surrounding streets there are usually simpler options.