Porta San Gervasio, Medieval gate in Lucca, Italy.
Porta San Gervasio is a medieval city gate in Lucca featuring a wide opening approximately 8 meters (26 feet) tall with a rounded arch and two towers built from gray sandstone with white limestone details. The structure stands near Via del Fosso and preserves elements of the moat system that once protected this entrance to the city.
Construction of this gate was completed in 1255 as one of four main entrances through Lucca's medieval walls. The structure underwent partial demolition during Renaissance modifications to the city's defenses but survived as a notable reminder of that era.
The inner archway displays a religious artwork showing Madonna holding a Child, with two saints and angels positioned below in traditional medieval style. This carved decoration reflects the spiritual importance this passage held for people entering and leaving the city.
The gate is easily accessible from Via del Fosso, where you can see the preserved remains of the moat system around the structure. Note that the two towers flanking the gate now serve as private residences and are not open to visitors.
The twin towers flanking this gate now function as private homes and have housed notable creative figures. One tower was once home to guitarist Italo Meschi, while the other served as the studio and residence for painter Alfredo Meschi.
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