Ducal Palace, Lucca

The Ducal Palace is a Renaissance structure in Piazza Napoleone with two large courtyards connected by a neoclassical gallery spanning multiple levels. The building preserves its historic rooms and continues to serve administrative functions while hosting temporary exhibitions.

The building started as Fortezza Augusta in the 14th century and underwent major transformation by Bartolomeo Ammannati in 1578. This reshaping turned it into a government center with the structure visitors see today.

The palace displays works of art that reflect how Lucca valued its independence and civic pride through the centuries. Visitors today can sense this through the decorated halls, which still carry the weight of decisions made by local leaders.

Parts of the palace are open to the public while other areas remain reserved for administrative operations and temporary exhibitions. Check ahead about current access, as availability varies depending on events and official activities.

One courtyard is named after the Swiss Guards who served the independent Republic of Lucca, preserving the memory of when the city maintained its own security force. This detail often escapes visitors but reflects an important chapter in the city's self-governed past.