Religious site

San Michele in Foro

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San Michele in Foro is a striking Romanesque church that stands on the site of Lucca's ancient Roman forum, giving it its name. Its facade is a masterpiece of Pisan-Romanesque architecture, featuring multiple tiers of blind arches, small columns, and intricate carvings. At the top stands a large statue of the Archangel Michael slaying a dragon, flanked by two angels. Inside, the church is relatively simple but houses notable artworks, including a painted crucifix from the 13th century and a terracotta altarpiece by Andrea della Robbia. The church's location in Piazza San Michele, a lively square with cafes and shops, makes it a central stop for visitors exploring Lucca's historic center. The facade is best viewed in the morning when sunlight illuminates its details.

Don't miss

  • The Pisan-Romanesque facade with multiple arcades and decorative motifs
  • The statue of Saint Michael the Archangel on top of the facade
  • The 13th-century painted crucifix inside
  • The terracotta altarpiece by Andrea della Robbia
  • The ancient Roman forum site beneath the church

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Ways to visit San Michele in Foro

You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.

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