Livorno is the Mediterranean
port that serves as the gateway to Tuscany. Easy
rail trips take visitors to Florence, Pisa and
others of the dozen popular Tuscan towns. See
also
European Excursions: Tuscany for more
sights in this region.
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Lucca, a
relatively un-touristy Tuscan city, is known for
its well-preserved Renaissance walls surrounding its historic
center.
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Broad tree-lined pathways along the tops of the 16th and 17th
century ramparts are popular for biking and walking.
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A walled stream
runs down the center of the Via del Fosso.
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Lucca maintains the medieval-like
layout of wandering streets, decorated archways and open
plazas.
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Lucca has three spectacular churches including
the oldest from the 1100s, the Basilica of San Frediano.
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The ring of
buildings surrounding the Piazza del Antfitiatro follows the
elliptical shape of the original Roman amphitheatre.
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In Pisa, the medieval Borgo Stretto contains strolling arcades and the Lungarno,
the avenues along the river Arno.
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The main attraction in Pisa is the medieval Piazza del
Duomo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
with its cathedral, baptistry and leaning bell tower.
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Piazza dei
Miracoli |
Palazzo dei Cavalieri |
Piazza del Duomo |
Pisa's streets criss-cross dozens of piazzas, former market squares, which are lined with
palaces and filled with statues.
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Pisa contains
20 historic churches, several medieval palaces and various
bridges across the Arno River.
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Pisa is a hub of contemporary art, as seen in the numerous
installations throughout the city, wonderfully juxtaposed
against the historical architecture.
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