Town Walls – Lucca, Italy

The historical centre of Lucca lies within a unique wall system. These walls, built of small red bricks specifically created for their construction, were many years in the making (16th to 17th century). They were built as a defence against the 'old enemy', Florence, but were never in fact put to the test in war. However they have remained intact. Their bulk alone would have protected them from wilful destruction. But they also have the love of the inhabitants of Lucca. Today citizens and visitors to Lucca love to walk (or jog, or cycle!) on the wide and peaceful road…