Uploaded October 2024 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
Lucca has many beautiful squares but the most interesting one is famous for its elliptical shape Unique shape derives from the ancient Roman amphitheater that used to stand here and could accommodate ten thousand spectators During unstable medieval times many ancient Roman were converted into fortresses This amphitheater was no exception as all of its outside arches were closed to make it impenetrable Later the ruins were covered by houses that were built on the remaining walls preserving the oval outline of the arena You can still find traces of the original walls base of the ancient structure is buried about 9 feet deep The remaining vaults and arches have been incorporated into old houses that circle the plaza All around the square are and restaurants and the central part has become a popular meeting area You can enter the square through one of its 4 gateways one at each at the 4 extremes of the ellipse.
Lucca has many beautiful squares but the most interesting one is famous for its elliptical shape Unique shape derives from the ancient Roman amphitheater that used to stand here and could accommodate ten thousand spectators During unstable medieval times many ancient Roman were converted into fortresses This amphitheater was no exception as all of its outside arches were closed to make it impenetrable Later the ruins were covered by houses that were built on the remaining walls preserving the oval outline of the arena You can still find traces of the original walls base of the ancient structure is buried about 9 feet deep The remaining vaults and arches have been incorporated into old houses that circle the plaza All around the square are and restaurants and the central part has become a popular meeting area You can enter the square through one of its 4 gateways one at each at the 4 extremes of the ellipse.
