After another hotel breakfast consisting of a pastry (not a very good one) and an extra strong cappuccino (I realized this is how to order a cappuccino in Italy: a regular cappuccino with an espresso on the side. Milk still tastes kind of weird) I was on my way to explore.
The first place of attraction I visited today was right next to our hotel. It was another Roman Catholic basilica San Michele in Foro. I liked how peaceful and quiet this church was, maybe because it was early enough for tourists to spoil the experience. Oh wait, I was a tourist myself... I am a respectful one though, I don't talk loudly, I don't cut the lines (yes, there were people like that too) and I don't squeeze in between two folks trying to enjoy the sights. Ok, back to the basilica...
I then walked to the Duomo di Lucca, Cattedrale di San Martino aka Lucca Cathedral. It was still closed, so I had a chance to take lots of pictures outside. Again, I was really enjoying not having too many people around.
The entry cost 3 Euro, and inside you are not allowed to take any pictures. While this was just another church, it seemed locals were more visible there coming for service vs. just tourists looking at the ceiling. The ceiling was indeed impressive as many paintings on the walls.
My next stop was Guinigi Tower. I bought a combo ticket that included the tower, the clock tower and botanical gardens for 9 Euro. I wasn't really sure about the botanical gardens, but figured I would visit it anyway.
The Guinigi Tower was impressive, and with my fear of heights every step was a challenge. I managed to climb pretty much to the top, but the small narrow stairs to the roof was a deal breaker for me. On the other hand, my next stop, Torre delle Ore (the clock tower) was a success. While it is similar in height, the stairs were sturdy and not see-through, hence a victory!
Now, the botanic gardens! Well, I have seen gardens that are much more impressive, but I think I would have a different opinion had I come during the blooming season, not at the end of September.
With only a few minor sights to cover, I strolled along Lucca streets finding strange objects of art like this one, completely made of paper.
I had lunch a few blocks from our hotel. The restaurant was well-rated on TripAdvisor. I was one of the few first customers. This delicious pasta dish, simple yet flavorful, offered a moderately full belly and enough energy to get to the next destination.
Basilica of San Frediano looked plain on the outside with a distinct feature - a 14th century mosaic and a bell tower.
I returned to the hotel for a break and a short nap, and headed out with the group for appertivi (aka happy hour drinks). Unlike happy hours in the US, in Italy it comes with free food - pizza, salads, breads, sauces - a decent dinner!
At 7 PM we had an opera performance planned at Chiesa di Santa Reparata e San Giovanni. Puccini concerts are held there every day during the season. There were two singers and a piano player. Acoustics made all the difference. For an hour and a half we were enjoying powerful voices of the singers emphasized by the surroundings of the historical church full of legends and probably memories - definitely an amazing experience!
After the concert we stayed a little longer looking around.
Another gelato - and this day is a success!
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