Chiesa di San Michele in Foro

After seeing it the second time, it is still just as cool as the first. It is leaning for sure and it is a beautiful building. Crazy to see the "adjustment" they made on the middle floors if you look close enough. Still hate the fact that nobody follows the rules about staying off grass and people standing inside the no go zone for their pictures. Everyone is more important than anyone else. And unless you live within walking distance leave your dog at home.

The outside of the church is framed by stunning marble columns and reliefs. Inside, everything seems simple, if you don't know one interesting secret- there are intriguing hand-drawn animal figures on some of the columns. These drawings are examples of medieval graffiti, created by pilgrims, clergy, or local visitors during the Middle Ages. Such graffiti often included ships, cities, and animals, reflecting personal experiences, devotional expressions, or observations of daily life. They serve as a testament to the human connection and continuity within sacred spaces across generations.

Most beautiful church in Lucca specially for its façade from 14th century with large sculptures and inlays, as the church itself is much older. Church is dedicated to Archangel Michael which 4m high statue is on the top of the main façade between two other angels. "In Foro" means that it was build over Roman Forum. church inside is a basilica type one with less decoration, and there is an organ. Under the altar there is a mummified body of pilgrim San Divino Armeno that died 1050, oldest known mummified saint in Italy. Entrance is free.

Although we didnt have enough time to explore the interiors, the architecture alone is enough for a visit. Also there are many cafe and shops nearby to rest and enjoy some aperol.

The Chiesa di San Michele in Foro, located in the heart of Lucca, Italy, is a stunning example of Romanesque architecture with its intricately detailed façade and towering statue of the Archangel Michael. The church's marble exterior is a masterpiece, adorned with ornate carvings and columns, each uniquely designed. Inside, the atmosphere is serene, with beautiful artwork and a sense of timeless spirituality. While the interior is more understated compared to the elaborate exterior, it still offers a quiet beauty and historical charm. A visit to San Michele in Foro is a must for art and history enthusiasts exploring Lucca.

This is so gorgeous, spectacular! The external is super nice. Captivating and worth all photo taking. It is free to enter and visit. You would find the interior less spectacular but it has its charm. Definitely a visit. You can also enjoy the building for some food or drinks or dessert just near the place.

Actually the centre of lucca chiesa di san michele. If you want to visit the centre of lucca, drinks or soothing evening. This is the best place to visit. Lucca is different, it has its own vibes

The Chiesa di San Michele in Foro is a stunning Roman Catholic basilica. Its origins date back to the 8th century when a small church was first established on the site. However, the structure you see today began taking shape around 1070, under the direction of Pope Alexander II. The façade, added in the 13th century, is a masterpiece of Pisan-Romanesque architecture, adorned with four tiers of small loggias, intricate carvings, and a striking 4-meter-tall marble statue of St. Michael slaying a dragon at the top, flanked by two angels. A local legend claims that under certain lighting, a green sparkle—possibly an emerald—can be seen in the statue, though it’s never been found. It houses notable artworks, including a terracotta Madonna with Child by Luca della Robbia and a panel of Four Saints by Filippino Lippi. Beneath the main altar lies the preserved body of San Davino Armeno, a pilgrim who died in Lucca in 1050 while traveling the Via Francigena; his remains are one of Italy’s oldest mummified saints.