Pieve di Brancoli

The Pieve di Brancoli is a Romanesque parish church standing on a hillside with three naves divided by columns and pillars. The building features a semicircular apse and a bell tower topped with crenellations.

The church was built on the remains of a former temple to Apollo and gained parish status in 1092. It had already been consecrated by Pope Alexander II in 1026.

Inside you can see a marble ambo carved with lions fighting warriors and a glazed terracotta work by Andrea della Robbia. The church also holds a painted crucifix from the Berlinghieri school, showing the artistic taste of medieval times.

The church sits about 10 kilometers (6 miles) from Lucca's center on a hillside reached by a winding country road. Tours can be arranged by calling ahead to book a visit.

The lintel above the south door displays an enigmatic relief figure called the Brancolino with outstretched arms and oversized hands. This mysterious carving has never been fully explained by scholars.

Location: Lucca

Inception: 11 century

Architectural style: Romanesque architecture

GPS coordinates: 43.93585,10.52724

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:20