Chiesa dei Santi Giovanni e Reparata

Overview

The complex of Santi Giovanni e Reparata encompasses a 12th-century church and an archaeological excavation revealing layers of Roman, Early Christian, and medieval Lucca beneath the present floor level.

Highlights

• Underground Excavations: Roman floor mosaics, an early Christian baptistery, and Longobard-era tombs are visible below the nave.
• Baptistery: A separate square baptistery adjacent to the church retains its original marble font.
• Acoustic Space: The church periodically hosts concerts that exploit its notable acoustics.

History

The site has been in continuous use as a place of worship since at least the 4th century. Successive churches were built atop one another, creating a stratigraphic record excavated since the 1960s. The visible church is an 1187 reconstruction.

Visitor Tips

• Combined Ticket: Included in the cathedral combo ticket.
• Underground Can Be Cool: Bring a layer — temperatures below ground are noticeably lower.
• Duration: 30–40 minutes.