San Giovanni e Reparata Complex
Discover ancient Roman ruins beneath a historic church and enjoy enchanting Puccini concerts in Lucca.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Magical atmosphere
San Giovanni e Reparata Complex
Best Time
Magical atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover ancient Roman ruins beneath a historic church and enjoy enchanting Puccini concerts in Lucca.
"The church's decoration and atmosphere add beautifully to the experience, making it special."
🎟️ Concert Ticket Info
Concert tickets are not free; expect around €30. Credit cards may not be accepted, so bring cash.
📖 Libretto Purchase
For a better understanding, pay extra for the Italian and English libretto to follow along with the performances.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Puccini Concerts
Inside the church
Experience short, accessible opera performances featuring Puccini's masterpieces. A treat for both opera novices and aficionados.
Roman Excavations
Underground
Descend to discover original worship areas dating back over 2,000 years. A fascinating glimpse into the site's ancient past.
Impressive Cupola
Exterior
Admire the imposing brick cupola of the church, a significant architectural feature visible from the surrounding area.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Puccini
Tickets & Underground Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🎟️ Concert Ticket Info
Concert tickets are not free; expect around €30. Credit cards may not be accepted, so bring cash.
📖 Libretto Purchase
For a better understanding, pay extra for the Italian and English libretto to follow along with the performances.
🏛️ Combined Ticket Value
A week-long combined ticket for Duomo, bell tower, and San Giovanni is a great deal for exploring multiple sites.
🎶 Excellent Acoustics
The church's acoustics are bright and excellent for singers, enhancing the concert experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Concert Ticket Info
Concert tickets are not free; expect around €30. Credit cards may not be accepted, so bring cash.
📖 Libretto Purchase
For a better understanding, pay extra for the Italian and English libretto to follow along with the performances.
🏛️ Combined Ticket Value
A week-long combined ticket for Duomo, bell tower, and San Giovanni is a great deal for exploring multiple sites.
🎶 Excellent Acoustics
The church's acoustics are bright and excellent for singers, enhancing the concert experience.
🎤 Talented Performers
Performers are classy, well-trained, and deliver enjoyable musical tidbits from Puccini's operas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the San Giovanni e Reparata Complex for its excellent acoustics and the quality of its Puccini concerts, often described as a magical experience. The underground Roman excavations are a significant draw, offering a fascinating glimpse into ancient history. Some visitors were surprised by the ticket prices for concerts, which are not free, and recommend purchasing the libretto for a better understanding of the performances.
"The reason I visited the church was to attend a small opera, inspired by Puccini. It’s an ideal performance if you’re new to the world of opera, short, accessible, and very enjoyable. However, if you’re expecting a full four-hour Vienna-style opera experience, this might not be what you’re looking for. The church’s decoration and atmosphere add beautifully to the experience, making it special. I enjoyed it, and you are especially lucky if Olympia Hetherington is performing."
Charlie
"Inside Santi Giovanni is another tower to climb and an underground display of the original area of worship (which used to be the ground level), some of which dates back over 2,000 years. Unmissable. And the combined Cathedral-Musuem-Chiesa ticket lasts for a week, so you can climb the two towers of the Chiesa and Duomo on different days if you wish."
Graham Rigby
"The 7:00 p.m. nightly Puccini concert was wonderful! The selections are brief so even those who can't tolerate long opera can enjoy these musical tidbits! The performers are classy and extremely well-trained. The setting is magnificent!
My only warning is that if you read that these are free, as we had done, don't believe it! The cost is €30 per person and they do not take credit cards! As shocking as it was for us when we expected it to be free, I must say it was still worthwhile! And one other piece of advice, if you want to understand the words pay the extra €5 to get the libretto in Italian and English. Then the program for the night directs you to a particular page where you can follow along in the Italian and glance to the right to see the English. It makes the short performances much more interesting!"
Jim Mannoia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The San Giovanni e Reparata Complex is located in Lucca, close to the Duomo. It's easily accessible on foot within the historic center. If arriving by car, park in one of the designated parking areas outside the city walls and walk in.
Yes, the church is centrally located and well-signposted within Lucca's historic center, often mentioned alongside the Duomo.
Opening hours can vary, especially for specific events like concerts. It's best to check the official schedule for the Roman excavations and any scheduled performances.
The Roman excavations are generally accessible during the complex's opening hours. However, it's advisable to confirm these hours beforehand, as they might differ from concert times.
Direct parking is limited within Lucca's historic center. Visitors typically park in paid parking lots outside the city walls and walk to the complex.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Concerts typically cost around €30 per person. It's important to note that these events are not free, contrary to some older information.
It's reported that credit cards may not be accepted for concert tickets, so it's recommended to bring cash to avoid any issues.
Yes, a combined ticket is available that includes entry to the Duomo, its bell tower, and San Giovanni e Reparata. This ticket is valid for a week.
Advance booking is often recommended, especially for popular performances. Check the official website or contact the venue for booking information.
The combined ticket typically grants access to the main church, the bell tower of the Duomo, and the underground Roman excavations at San Giovanni e Reparata.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
The concerts are short, accessible, and feature well-trained performers. The church's magnificent setting and acoustics enhance the experience, making it enjoyable even for those new to opera.
The underground area displays the original levels of worship, with remnants dating back over 2,000 years, offering a unique historical perspective.
While not explicitly detailed for San Giovanni, climbing towers in Lucca (like the Duomo's) offers panoramic city views. The combined ticket allows for this if applicable.
The concerts are brief, featuring selections from Puccini's operas, making them suitable for those who prefer shorter performances.
Information on guided tours for the excavations is not widely available. It's best to inquire on-site or check the official website for any available options.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography rules can vary. Generally, photography without flash is permitted in many churches, but it's always best to check for any posted signs or ask staff.
The altar area, the impressive cupola from within, and the ancient Roman structures in the underground excavations offer unique photographic opportunities.
During performances, it's usually expected to refrain from taking photos or videos to avoid disturbing the artists and audience. Check with the event organizers.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historic city centers and around religious sites. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
The lighting inside the church can be atmospheric, with natural light filtering in and some artificial lighting. The underground excavations are more dimly lit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🎶 Opera Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Puccini Experience
Key Takeaways:
* Accessible Opera: Perfect for beginners and those seeking shorter musical experiences.
* Talented Performers: High-quality vocalists and accompanists.
* Atmospheric Venue: The church's acoustics and ambiance enhance the performance.
* Libretto Recommended: Purchase for a deeper understanding of the music.
Exploring the Roman Past
Key Features:
* Ancient Foundations: Discover remnants of early Christian or even Roman-era worship spaces.
* Historical Layers: Understand the evolution of the site over centuries.
* Unique Contrast: Experience the juxtaposition of ancient ruins and the Renaissance church above.
* Combined Ticket Value: Access this historical gem as part of a broader Lucca exploration.
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