San Michele in Foro
San Michele in Foro is one of the narrated stops on the self-guided Lucca audio walking tour in Gingerguide. Plan about ~30 min here. Press play at the spot for its two to three minute story, or ask the AI guide anything about it.
- Type religious
- Suggested visit ~30 min
- Lucca Lucca guide
About San Michele in Foro
San Michele in Foro, the church on the Roman forum of Lucca, with a tall white marble front of four rows of small arches and a great statue of the Archangel Michael on top.
The church is first recorded in 795, and the present building was begun from 1070. Its marble front, with four rows of small arches, dates from the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries and was much restored in the nineteenth. Inside is an altarpiece by Filippino Lippi.
The church is normally free, but visits stop during services; hours vary, so check at the door. The square is a lively meeting place. During Lucca Comics and Games it becomes a gathering point for costumed fans and is very crowded.
Did you know? San Michele in Foro in Lucca stands on the site of the Roman forum, at the crossing of the two main Roman streets; a church here is first recorded in 795.
How long should you spend at San Michele in Foro?
Plan about ~30 min at San Michele in Foro. That is enough to take it in and hear its narrated story; stay longer if it grabs you. The tour is self-guided, so there is no rush.
Is San Michele in Foro worth visiting?
San Michele in Foro is one of the 13 sights the Gingerguide team researched and narrated in Lucca, so it earns a place on a self-guided walk. Its story explains why it matters, and you can ask the AI guide anything the story leaves open.
Nearby stops in Lucca
Sources and further reading
Where to check the facts about San Michele in Foro and read more:
Day 1 of the Lucca in 2 days itinerary →
Updated:
Hear the story of San Michele in Foro
Preview the Lucca tour free in the Gingerguide app.