San Michele Church stands proudly in the piazza of the same name. It is one of my favourite places in Lucca. The piazza is right in the centre of the city and is always busy.
church of San Michele
The Romanesque basilica of San Michele in Foro took 200 years to build. The church never attained its full height, which is why the facade seems too big for the rest of the church. “in Foro” comes from the square which was once the forum of the Roman colony.
from the side
with pigeons
the campanile
on a corner of the church
There is often a market set up in the piazza beside the church. I think it spoils the ambience a bit, but it seems to be very popular.
the market in Piazza San Michele
The church is particularly lovely in the late afternoon when it appears to be bathed in a golden light.
late afternoon at San Michele
the top of the church
blowing his trumpet
on the facade
The archangel Michael stands very grandly at the top of the facade.
the angel at the top
At night it become white again.
San Michele at night
You can’t miss it if you are in Lucca. Take a look and then scoot off to the nearby Paris Boheme for lunch or dinner.