We were sooooo blessed to spend another day in this picturesque part of the world. Livorno has very different scenery than Sorrento but it is just as gorgeous For me, Tuscany just radiates grace and peace. The countryside is filled with so many shades of green - everything from a lemony light green, mantis, shamrock and forest green. The area around Livorno is very flat, with many small quiet rivers, canals and streams running through it. There are numerous trees, many varieties of fruit and beautiful florals. Three of the most prominent trees are olive, cypress, and pine (from which they harvest pine nuts). The flowers on the trees tend to be delicate petite blooms ranging from white pink, yellow, to purple. There are fields planted with beautiful grasses and clover for the animals and others planted with fruits and vegetables. Just incredibly lush and vibrant. I find myself trying not to blink so I don't miss a second of it - I just want to soak in all of the natural beauty Tuscany has to offer.
Our tour today was to the medieval village of Lucca, about a 45 minute ride inland of Livorno. As we approached the town we could see the massive red brick walls which served to defend the town. They were built between 1504 and 1645 and are among the best preserved Renaissance defenses in Europe. Lucca is a peaceful village of narrow lanes, with only very limited traffic allowed within the city walls. Only residents or delivery services are allowed to bring in vehicles. Many of the residents use bicycles to run their errands within town which imparts an additional charm.
We happened to be in town on a day of special celebration. They were honoring St. Zita who was a housekeeper for a local wealthy family many years ago. Legend has it that Zita performed a miracle of turning a loaf of bread into flowers. She also led a life of service and many good works. The Catholic Church declared her a saint and April 27th is the day that the village of Lucca celebrates her life. On her special day Zita's mummified body is displayed in a glass case in the Church of San Frediano. The church is adorned with a striking facade and a 13th century mosaic. Inside, there is an elaborately decorated Romanesque font and lovely frescoes.
As we strolled through the town we passed the Guinigi Tower, which belonged to a wealthy family in Lucca during the 15th century. At the time there was a rule that no privately owned buildings could be taller than any of the municipalities tallest buildings. So, the wealthy landowner planted some tall trees on the top of his roof so he could boast that he had the highest structure in the village!!!!
Another church, the Church of San Martino, houses a 13th century wooden effigy believed by medieval pilgrims to be carved by Christ's follower, Nicodemus, at the time of the crucifixion. We proceeded to walk to the Anfiteateo Romano, which is the former Roman Amphitheater. Today, it is enclosed by medieval houses that were built up again the walls of the amphitheater.
Our walking tour concluded with a visit to the Via Fillungo, which is Lucca's principal shopping street. We had the choice to climb up and walk along the top of the city wall for a short distance or walk along the street. I chose to walk along the shopping street and enjoy a cappuccino with friends. Of course Bob chose to walk on the wall. Unfortunately he left the group, got completely lost and was nearly late for our return to the ship! Luckily, he found his way back just before we left.
We enjoyed a beautiful day in the little medieval village and are now sailing to Monaco to see Monte Carlo. So excited because we will spend tomorrow with our daughter Misha and our son-in-law Naoki. Soooo happy to spend the day with them. Hope I can sleep tonight!
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