If you think you've had enough of Tuscany's graceful panoramic views, magnificent olive groves, landscaped gardens and estates, rustic farmhouses, and prized vineyards, then there is no need to visit this perfect getaway destination! Surrounded by some of the finest wines and olive oils in all of Italy, Lucca is an imposingly charming walled city smack in the middle of a torrent of Tuscan splendor. Though once rivaling medieval Florence and Siena in military and political prowess, the city currently defends itself solely from the hordes of tourists who flock to its amphitheaters, nook-and-cranny passageways, nestled away churches, and antique storefronts. Bicycles rule the city, and can even be found atop the city walls rambling lazily down the sunny promenade.

History
The first hints at Lucca date back to the Palaeolithic period. Later, the area was inhabited by the Ligurians, Etruscans, and ultimately the Romans during the 3rd century B.C. In 180 B.C., the city became a Latin colony. Strategically located, with important roadways intersecting just outside its borders, Lucca at this time acquired great importance and entered into a period of historic splendor. During barbaric invasion and up until the 9th century A.D., Lucca was heralded as the capital of the Longobard reign. It became a free commune in 1162 A.D., and in subsequent centuries grew in wealth thanks in large part to an abundance in banking and manufacturing activities. As Lucca prospered, trade was established with the rest of Europe and the East, and examples of more extravagant architecture began to spring up throughout the city. In 1799, Lucca fell under Napoleonic rule, which lasted twelve years and led up to Parma's hold on the city in 1814. Lucca joined the Grand Duchy of Tuscany in 1847, and was ultimately annexed to the Kingdom of Italy.

Sights
Piazza Napoleone lies in the heart of Lucca and is the town's administrative center, housing government offices and assemblages of tourists and locals alike. Visit the cathedral, the Duomo di San Martino, with works by Matteo Civitali (Lucca's famous sculptor). The city's Chiesa di San Giovanni, is a church sheltering an amazing archeological treasure—recently excavated, 2nd century A.D. Roman ruins. Naturally, no music lover should miss the birthplace of famed composer Giacomo Puccini: the house—where Puccini composed his last opera, Turandot—which contains his letters and manuscripts, as well as his own personal piano. Every visitor to Lucca should make sure to take a stroll or bike ride around the city's perfectly intact surrounding walls. Closed to cars, the 4km path provides a perfect spot to view the layout of the city and its beautiful environs, and is optimal for an afternoon picnic or some pleasantly restorative r&r.

Transportation
Trains run in and out of Piazza Ricasoli, just beyond the city walls, and provide the most convenient transport to and from the city. Florence, Pisa, and Viareggio are popular and easily reached destinations. Buses run daily to Florence and Pisa as well, and leave from Piazza Verdi, adjacent to the tourist office. Bikes can be acquired from the city's rental establishments Promo Toursit (348 380 0126) or Antonio Poli (0583 49 37 87). (Pricing and services between the two establishments are comparable.).

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