The Cathedral of St. Martin was originally constructed in the 11th century. Little remains of the original structure the building’s elaborate architecture is the result of numerous renovations over the centuries. Stored within the church is an ancient and acclaimed crucifix.
Before entering the cathedral, take a moment to admire the building’s exterior. The columns on the upper levels of the building are covered with sculptures and geometric patterns. Be sure to look at the buttresses at the top of the columns, which have grotesque animal and human figures carved into them. Use a pair of binoculars or a telephoto lens on a camera to see the detail of the designs.
On the lower part of the façade, pay special attention to the three arches. The arches are asymmetrical in design, as the right arch is smaller than the other two. To the right of the middle arch is a statue of the cathedral’s dedicatee, St. Martin. The statue depicts St. Martin atop his horse, giving part of his cloak to a beggar. This effigy is a replica of the 13th-century original, which is kept inside the cathedral. Look at the bas-reliefs that decorate the portico, particularly the representation of St. Regulus being beheaded by the Goths.
Upon entering the cathedral, go to the small octagonal chapel, which houses one of the most sacred relics in all of Lucca, the Volto Canto di Lucca (Holy Face of Lucca). According to legend, this wooden cross and effigy of Jesus Christ were carved by Nicodemus, who was one of the individuals who prepared Christ’s body for burial. Scholars think the cross is a copy of the original.
For small fee, visitors can see the tomb of Ilaria del Carretto. This Italian nobleman, who passed away in 1405, is entombed in a beautiful marble sarcophagus. Statues of Ilaria and his dog are carved into the lid of the sarcophagus, making it appear as though Ilaria and his dog are resting on top of the coffin. The sides of the tomb are decorated with carvings of cherubs.
The Cathedral of St. Martin is open every day. The church is located at the eastern end of the Piazza San Martino and is only a short walk away from Lucca’s train station.
