Top 19 Castles around Lucca
Best castles around Lucca are found in the surrounding province and nearby areas, offering a journey into medieval history. The region is characterized by its strategic locations, often overlooking river valleys or nestled within the Apuan Alps. These historical sites provide insights into defensive architecture and local traditions. Lucca itself is known for its Renaissance walls, with traditional castles primarily located outside the city center.
Best castles around Lucca
- The most popular castles is Nozzano Castle, a castle that was built by the Lucchesi to defend their territory from the Pisans. This well-preserved medieval fortress features a crenellated keep, towers, and defensive walls.
- Another must-see spot is Ariostesca Fortress, a castle and man-made monument. Visitors can explore its structure, which dates back to the 12th century, and see the imposing tower with the civic clock.
- Visitors also love Rocca del Cerruglio, Montecarlo, a castle and historical site. This site offers a glimpse into the region's past defensive structures.
- Lucca is known for medieval fortresses, historical ruins, and well-preserved castles. The area offers a variety of castles to see and explore, from strategic strongholds to sites with rich historical narratives.
- The castles around Lucca are appreciated by the komoot community, with 19 highlights, 178 upvotes, and 84 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Nozzano Castle
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Castelnuovo di Garfagnana
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Bargiglio Tower
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Ariostesca Fortress
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There was already a small garrison on the site in the 10th century, but the structure of the fortress can be said to date back to the 12th century; modified during the thirteenth century, it was familiarly enlarged at the beginning of the fourteenth century by Castruccio Castracani, who extended an extension of the entire walls of the village; it was Paolo Guinigi who commissioned the construction of the imposing tower in the center of the Rocca, decorated with the civic clock, the terrace overlooking the square was built in 1675, the same with the opening of the monumental entrance arch to the city center.
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Rocca del Cerruglio, Montecarlo
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Ruins of a Castle above of Peralla
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Fortezza di Mont'Alfonso
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Montecatino Tower and Ruins of the Church of Santa Maria Annunziata
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On the top of Montecatino there are the remains of the church of S. Maria Annunziata, with its almost intact bell tower (the bell is currently located in the parish church of S. Lorenzo della Cappella); furthermore around you can see the remains of the parish rooms and farmhouses. Thanks to the excavations carried out in the summer of 1986 it was discovered that starting from the V - III sec. B.C. the site was an Etruscan settlement. We do not know anything else until 1082 when reference is made, on the Lucchese Chapter, to the Montecativo castle located in that position, very useful strategically, as a signaling "tower" (from the top, in fact, you can see the entire Lucca plain).
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Rocca di Camporgiano
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The main tower of the fortress houses the Civic Collection of Renaissance Ceramics, which brings together ceramics from a period ranging from the early fifteenth century to the second half of the seventeenth century, mostly found in the wells of the fortification during restoration work.
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Monteggiori Village
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Tips from the Community
a village definitely worth visiting!
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A beautiful hike. Some trails are a bit abandoned and lack signage, but following the trail is fine. From the top of the tower, there would be a beautiful view, but we missed it due to fog and a myriad of flying ants.
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It's a very beautiful castle but there are no shops so I recommend it as a short stop for a little climb
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The ruins of the Tower, or Rocca, of Bargiglio stand on the top of the mountain of the same name at 866 meters above sea level at the gates of Garfagnana and the Media Valle del Serchio. Once you arrive at the Tower, it is clear why it has always been called the "Eye of Lucca": the view is panoramic at 360 degrees and offers a perfect view from the peaks of the Apuan Alps, with the Pania di Corfino clearly visible, to the numerous castles and fortresses of Garfagnana, such as the Castiglione Castle and the Mont'Alfonso Fortress. From here you can also dominate the entire Serchio Valley below, from the walls of Barga and Coreglia Antelminelli to Bagni di Lucca, up to the many towns in the Municipality of Pescaglia. And finally, in the distance to the south, the Lucca plain and then the Tyrrhenian coast. The origin of the fortification dates back to an unknown era, probably built by the Suffredinghi, one of the three potentates of Lombard origin who controlled the Serchio Valley who distinguished themselves for their tenacious resistance to the expansionism of the Municipality of Lucca, being bordered by the Este dominions of Garfagnana. It consisted of only one tower, used as an observation and control point of the vast territory, of the road that passed a little further down and of the small community that lived in the farmhouses surrounding the fortification and the ancient Hermitage of S. Bartolomeo.
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very intimate and typical village, with a beautiful view of the reserve.
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Fantastic village with a view and a place to stop; there is also public water with fountains.
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Castelnuovo di Garfagnana - Tea Time Sunday, the locals in the new castle are also enjoying the peace. The apostles Peter and Paul invite us into the shade of their modest prayer house (Parrocchia Abbaziale dei SS. Apostoli Pietro e Paolo). The holy water is bubbling… The tea ceremony is a feast for the eyes when the tea bag changes the water in color and scent. After a short toast we bring comfort to Don Quixote. Seated on his horse Rocinate at Rocca Ariostesca, (old city gate) he continues his battle alone… Wandering further through the empty alleys and streets, students in Teatro Alfieri manage to entertain us with a matinée. Students put their best foot forward while fellow students, with crossed fingers, encourage the main character. Exam passed It was nice to be in the new castle during our tea time. Read more experiences? Click through to https://www.komoot.com/en-gb/collection/2195535/-visit-italy-2023-regio-massa-carrara-lucca
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Camporgiano is located on the right bank of the Serchio River, in a verdant valley that divides the mountain ranges of the Apuan Alps and the Apennines. Of Roman origin, the town was contested by numerous families and lordships since the Middle Ages; in 1446 it became part of the dominions of the Este family, until the Unification of Italy. The undisputed “star” of Camporgiano is the Rocca Estense, built on a rocky spur, and whose bulk dominates the main square of the town. At the top of the Rocca there is a sort of hanging garden in which some conifers stand out, giving the fortress an unmistakable character, dialoguing from afar with the fir trees that cover the heights of the surrounding reliefs. The fortress was built for defensive purposes in the 15th century and is an emblematic example of Este military architecture of the 15th century, with its trapezoidal wall and truncated conical corner towers protruding from the plan profile. Once the medieval center of the city, today the fortress does not retain much of its original structure due to the earthquake that struck the entire area in 1920. At the foot of the fortress you can also admire a stone fountain traditionally called the pilon. The main tower of the fortress houses the Civic Collection of Renaissance Ceramics, which brings together ceramics from a period ranging from the early fifteenth century to the second half of the seventeenth century, mostly found in the wells of the fortification during restoration work.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of historical significance do the castles around Lucca hold?
The castles and fortresses surrounding Lucca are rich in medieval history, often serving as strategic strongholds to defend the territory, particularly against Pisan attacks. Sites like Nozzano Castle played crucial roles in borderland defense, while others like the Ariostesca Fortress in Castelnuovo di Garfagnana showcase centuries of modifications and historical figures.
Are there any well-preserved medieval fortresses near Lucca?
Yes, several well-preserved medieval fortresses are worth exploring. Nozzano Castle, just outside Lucca, features a crenellated keep, towers, and defensive walls. Further afield, the Fortress of Verrucole in Garfagnana is an interactive 'Archeopark', and the Castle of Fosdinovo (in Massa Carrara, a bit further but highly recommended) is stunningly preserved with a museum and cultural center.
Which castles offer the best panoramic views?
Many castles and their surrounding areas provide excellent viewpoints. The Bargiglio Tower, once known as 'Occhio di Lucca' (Eye of Lucca), offers great panoramic views. Rocca del Cerruglio, Montecarlo and Fortezza di Mont'Alfonso also provide insights into the region's past defensive structures and scenic vistas. The Castle of Fosdinovo also boasts stunning views from its terraces.
Are there any castles with unique stories or legends?
The Castle of Fosdinovo, while a bit of a drive from Lucca, is steeped in legends. Most famously, it's said to be haunted by the ghost of Bianca Aloisia, who was allegedly walled alive for disobeying her father. It also features Dante Alighieri's room, as he spent part of his exile there.
Which castles around Lucca are suitable for families with children?
The Fortress of Verrucole in San Romano in Garfagnana is highly recommended for families. It's an 'Archeopark' with local volunteers dressed in medieval clothing who provide interactive tours and explain medieval activities. The Ariostesca Fortress in Castelnuovo di Garfagnana and Fortezza di Mont'Alfonso are also noted as family-friendly highlights.
Are there hiking or cycling opportunities near the castles?
Yes, the region around Lucca offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, general cycling paths, and gravel biking trails that pass by or near historical sites. For example, you can explore routes like the 'Passo del Vestito and Versilia Loop' for road cycling or the 'Cycling path of Versilia' for touring. You can find more details on these routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Lucca, Cycling around Lucca, and Gravel biking around Lucca guides.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles around Lucca?
Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) are generally considered the best times to visit. The weather is pleasant for exploring, and the landscapes are beautiful. Summer can be hot, especially for extensive outdoor exploration, but many castles offer shade. Some castles, like Nozzano Castle, host special events like 'Il Castello Rivive' in September, offering medieval immersion.
Are there any hidden gem castles or lesser-known historical sites to discover?
Beyond the more prominent sites, you can explore the Ruins of a Castle above of Peralla for a sense of untouched history. The Rocca of Villa Basilica, an imposing medieval ruin, offers insights into the region's defensive architecture and its ancient tradition of armorers and sword-making. These sites provide a deeper dive into the local past away from larger crowds.
Can I find accommodation or dining options near the castles?
Many of the castles are located near or within charming villages that offer local amenities. For instance, Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, home to the Ariostesca Fortress, has a vibrant Farmer's Market and local eateries. The Monteggiori Village, while featuring a luxury castle, also offers a picturesque setting. For specific recommendations, it's best to check local guides or online resources for the area you plan to visit.
How can I get to the castles from Lucca, and is parking available?
Access to castles varies. Many are reachable by car, and parking is often available in nearby villages or designated areas. For castles like Nozzano Castle, located just a few kilometers outside Lucca, driving is convenient. Public transport options like buses might serve some larger towns near castles, but for more remote sites, a car is generally recommended. Always check specific castle websites for detailed directions and parking information.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles around Lucca?
Visitors frequently appreciate the immersive historical experience, the stunning panoramic views from strategic locations, and the opportunity to explore well-preserved medieval architecture. The interactive nature of places like the Fortress of Verrucole and the rich historical narratives of sites like Nozzano Castle are often highlighted. The blend of history with beautiful natural surroundings also makes for a memorable visit.
Are there any castles that are particularly unique or luxurious?
Yes, 'La Rocca' in Monteggiori (Versilia, Lucca) stands out as a luxury castle. It has been renovated to blend modern style with Tuscan charm, featuring large spaces, high ceilings, and stunning views of the sea and valley, including a perfectly integrated pool. While not a traditional public historical site in the same vein as others, it offers a unique, luxurious experience combining history with modern comfort.
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