Guinigi Tower in Lucca, the “Medieval Skyscraper”

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One of the top attractions in Lucca is the Guinigi Tower, the famous medieval tower with a garden at its summit. Discover here the history and interesting facts about this Lucca monument and see details for visiting it.

History of the Guinigi Tower

The Guinigi Tower was one of the “skyscrapers” of the late Middle Ages: built in the mid-14th century by a powerful family of merchants and bankers, the Guinigi family.

This wealthy family owned the tower until recently: only in 1968 was the tower donated to the city by the family’s heirs, becoming public heritage.

Worth knowing: Originally, there were about 200 towers and tower houses within Lucca’s walls. The Guinigi Tower is the only tower that belonged to a private family not to have been demolished or destroyed until the 16th century.

The Guinigi Tower is notable for its hanging garden at the top, an unusual feature among medieval towers. This garden, with its canopy of holm oak trees, is visible from afar, adding an element of beauty and uniqueness to the tower.

Guinigi Tower in Lucca, the "Medieval Skyscraper"

At 44.19 meters tall, the tower is constructed of stone and red bricks in the Tuscan Romanesque-Gothic style, part of a larger complex that includes other structures belonging to the Guinigi “consorteria.”

The Guinigi Tower is open to the public. To reach the top of the tower and enjoy a spectacular view of the city and the Lucca hills, visitors face the challenge of climbing 230 steps, divided into 28 flights of stairs. The climb is split into two parts: the first in stone and the second, narrower and more difficult, in metal.

Inside the Guinigi Tower

Also see our tips for hotels in Lucca

From the top, you can admire the beautiful panoramic view of Lucca. Below is a photo I took during one of my visits to the city:

View from the Guinigi Tower

Tickets for the Guinigi Tower

Entrance to the Guinigi Tower is located at Via San Andrea 41, with the following prices directly on the official website:

CategoryRateOnline Tickets
FullEuro 6.00buy here
ReducedEuro 4.00buy here
FreeEuro 0.00buy here

Reduced Rate: The reduced rate is offered to minors under 18, seniors over 65, groups of 10 to 25 people with a guide, students, families.

Free Rate: Free admission applies to children under 8, people with disabilities and their companions, students and university students for research purposes, and schools in the municipality of Lucca (only for the Orto Botanico).

Tickets purchased through the official website are non-refundable or changeable, even in the event of adverse weather conditions or closures for public safety reasons. Visitors with reduced or free tickets must present supporting documentation.

Accessibility: The Guinigi Tower is located in a central point of Lucca’s historic center, difficult to access for people with reduced mobility due to the lack of elevators and the final steep climb.

The Guinigi Tower is not just an impressive architectural structure; it is a living testament to the history and culture of Lucca. Its architectural uniqueness, combined with the natural beauty of its rooftop garden, makes it a must-visit destination for any visitor to the Tuscany region.

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Barbara
I am a passionate adventurer and writer, with a love for exploring new cultures and sharing my experiences. After following my dreams to Italy in 2005, I met and married my Italian husband, and together we have two wonderful daughters who bring us joy. With a background in journalism and professional blogging, I am skilled in delivering engaging and accurate content. Having previously owned a travel agency, I have gained valuable insights into different destinations and cultures. I am thrilled to share my knowledge about Tuscany and beyond, providing unique perspectives on travel, culture, and lifestyle. You can also find my informative content in Portuguese on www.brasilnaitalia.net.

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