Campanile del Duomo di San Martino: Lucca's Bell Tower
Gaze up at the striking Romanesque-Gothic Campanile del Duomo di San Martino, its distinctive architecture rising high above Lucca's rooftops. As the bell tower for the Lucca Cathedral, this structure is a testament to the city's layered history, with construction spanning from the 12th to the early 14th century.
Architectural History and Design
The Campanile showcases a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles, reflecting the centuries-long evolution of the cathedral complex. The tower's lower sections date to at least the 12th century, predating the magnificent cathedral facade designed by Guidetto da Como, which was initiated in 1204.
A fascinating detail reveals this construction timeline: the right-hand arch of the cathedral's facade is visibly narrower than the other two. This was a deliberate design compromise, as the builders had to accommodate the already-existing bell tower. The tower itself features a striking visual contrast, with a base built from dark, multi-hued Guamo quartz stone and upper levels constructed from lighter limestone. Another curiosity is the original main entrance, an arched doorway located several meters above ground, which suggests it was once accessed by a removable wooden staircase for defensive purposes.
A Storied Past
The site of the Duomo di San Martino has been a religious center since the 6th century. The cathedral was rebuilt and consecrated in 1070 by Bishop Anselm, who would later become Pope Alexander II. The campanile has endured through the centuries, surviving numerous lightning strikes that necessitated restorations in 1630, 1645, 1819, and into the 20th century.
The tower holds tangible connections to Lucca's history. One of its seven bells, cast in 1324, features the effigy of Castruccio Castracani degli Antelminelli, a powerful Ghibelline leader of Lucca who was admired by Niccolò Machiavelli. The cathedral it serves is also home to the revered Volto Santo (Holy Face), a wooden crucifix that made Lucca a major medieval pilgrimage destination along the Via Francigena.
The Campanile Today
Today, the Campanile del Duomo di San Martino remains an active bell tower for the cathedral, which is the seat of the Archbishop of Lucca. Its bells continue a centuries-old tradition, with one striking twelve times at midday to mark the time for the city. The tower is also a prominent tourist attraction, inviting visitors to climb to its summit for breathtaking panoramic views of Lucca and the surrounding Tuscan countryside. Along with the rest of the cathedral complex, it serves as a venue for cultural events and exhibitions.
FAQ
Why is the cathedral facade next to the bell tower asymmetrical?
The Campanile already existed when the cathedral's facade was constructed in the early 13th century. To accommodate the pre-existing tower, the architect designed the right-hand arch of the facade to be narrower than the other two.
Can you climb the Campanile del Duomo di San Martino?
Yes, the bell tower is a tourist attraction, and visitors can climb it to experience panoramic views of Lucca and the Tuscan countryside.
What is special about the bells in the Campanile?
The bells continue to mark the hours, with one bell striking twelve times at midday. Additionally, one of the seven bells, cast in 1324, features the likeness of Castruccio Castracani, a prominent historical leader of Lucca.
How old is the Campanile del Duomo di San Martino?
The lower parts of the bell tower date back to at least the 12th century, with its construction being completed in the early 14th century.
