What it is
Located in the heart of Lucca, Piazza dell’Anfiteatro is an elliptical piazza built on the site of a Roman amphitheater. Today it is a public gathering place with shops, cafés, and restaurants, and hosts events and markets. Its history and architecture bring together ancient and modern elements (Visit Tuscany).
History
Roman origins
The original amphitheater was constructed in the 1st century during the reign of Emperor Claudius. It had fifty-four arches and could accommodate nearly ten thousand spectators, serving as a venue for public gatherings, games, and events (Tuscany.co).
Medieval transformation
As the Roman Empire declined, the amphitheater fell into disuse and disrepair. In the Middle Ages, its open arena—known as the parlascio, a derivative of the Latin word paralisium (amphitheater)—became a venue for public meetings. Buildings were gradually constructed around the perimeter, enclosing the space and forming the piazza.
19th-century revival
In the 19th century, architect Lorenzo Nottolini was commissioned to revive the piazza based on the Roman ruins. His design preserved the amphitheater’s elliptical shape and created an urban centre used as a market and social gathering place (Tuscany.co).
20th century and today
At the beginning of the 20th century, the central market moved to another part of the city. The piazza continued to be known locally as Piazza del Mercato (Market Square), reflecting its history as a commercial hub. It remains a centre of activity for locals and visitors.
What to see
The elliptical piazza and its gateways
The piazza’s elliptical shape follows that of the Roman amphitheater. Visitors enter through four doorways at the vertices of the ellipse. These gateways are remnants of the amphitheater’s original entrances, although only the lowest doorway is part of the original Roman structure. The piazza floor is nearly three feet higher than the ancient arena, after centuries of construction and renovation (Tuscany.co).
The cross and Roman remains
A carved cross marks the central tile of the piazza, with its arms pointing towards the four gateways (Nomads Travel Guide). The cross is also described as being engraved at the intersection of the four entryways. Remains of the old amphitheater can still be seen just beyond the piazza walls (Tuscany.co).
Ancient and modern architecture
The buildings around the piazza incorporate parts of the original Roman structure, including vaults and arches. Their mix of historical and contemporary features reflects the site’s long history (Atlas Obscura).
Practical visiting information
Opening hours
The piazza is a public space and is open 24/7. Individual shops and restaurants have varying hours.
Tickets
There is no entrance fee to visit the piazza itself. Some events or attractions within it may have separate charges or require tickets.
Accessibility
The piazza is accessible to visitors with mobility impairments, with paved walkways and ramps available.
Tips
- Enter through one of the four doorways. The lowest doorway is part of the original Roman structure.
- Look for the cross engraved in the piazza floor.
- The piazza floor is nearly three feet higher than the ancient arena.
- Visit the shops, cafés, and restaurants lining the piazza.
- Check the local calendar for events and markets taking place during your visit.
Nearby places
Lucca Cathedral
A short walk from the piazza, Lucca Cathedral is an example of Romanesque architecture.
Guinigi Tower
Climb the tower for views of Lucca and its surroundings.
Church of San Michele in Foro
This church has a richly decorated façade and is situated in another historic piazza.
FAQ
What are the opening hours of Piazza dell’Anfiteatro?
The piazza is open to the public 24/7, but individual establishments within it have varying hours.
Is there an entrance fee?
No. There is no entrance fee to visit the piazza itself, though some events or attractions may require tickets or have separate charges.
How can I access the piazza?
It can be accessed through any of its four doorways. The lowest doorway is part of the original Roman structure.
