According to tradition, the Cathedral of Lucca, dedicated to San Martino, was built by the will of San Frediano, the bishop of Lucca, who died in 588.
The Cathedral was completely rebuilt between 1060 and 1070 and then solemnly consecrated in 1070 by Anselmo da Baggio, who had already become Pope Alexander II, also in the presence of the Countess Matilda di Canossa. The works continued in alternating phases until 1637, when they ended with the construction of the Chapel of the Sanctuary.
The facade, inspired by that of the Cathedral of Pisa, is a masterpiece of the Romanesque of Lucca, the large portico overlooking the square with the three arches and the splendid bas-reliefs, which depict the martyrdom of San Regolo, the cycle of the months and the stories of St. Martino.
The Cathedral also preserves the Holy Face, a wooden crucifix that according to tradition was made by Nicodemus based on the real face of Jesus. The statue, considered the oldest in the West, was placed in a splendid fifteenth century temple by Matteo Civitali. .
Cathedral of Lucca - Virtual Tour 360°
Address: Piazza Antelminelli,
Phone: (+39) 0583.490530
Site:
https://www.museocattedralelucca.it/Location inserted by
CHO.earth