The Guinigi tower was added to the family house in the late 1300s as an emblem of prestige – a common trend at the time. It is one of only a few remaining in Lucca. There is a great view of Lucca and beyond from the top and for a small fee you can climb up.
The Guinigi tower is not nearly as high as the one I climbed in Bologna and the stairs are much easier to climb. The view from the top is excellent.
Guinigi tower
The tower has holm oaks (a symbol of renewal) growing on the top. It looks most impressive. It is visible from the wall surrounding Lucca and sometimes little glimpses appear between buildings when you are wandering around the streets.
looking up
the steps are wide and even
The steps are easy to climb for most of the way up. Just before the top there is a very narrow set of steps, but it is not too bad and you can see your goal from there.
my friend on the way up
old scenes from Lucca on the way up
it appears to be handpainted silk
I would like to know more about them
the trees on top
looking out over Lucca
more towers
San Frediano and campanile
looking into the anfiteatro
Lucca rooftops
lovely Lucca
Then it is back down the stairs.
back to the bottom
This tower is easy to climb and the views from the top make the effort worthwhile. Lucca is lovely from every angle. Just look for the tower with the trees on top.
Click here to see the climb to the top of the tower in Bologna.