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Tempietto di Nottolini Lucca

4.4
·710 reviews·Lucca, Italy

An 19th-century engineering marvel, the Nottolini Aqueduct stretches across the Tuscan landscape with its iconic arches.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Tempietto di Nottolini Lucca

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An 19th-century engineering marvel, the Nottolini Aqueduct stretches across the Tuscan landscape with its iconic arches.

4.4
(710 reviews)

"Impressive build, but the surrounding landscape was not."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Start at San Concordio

Begin your exploration at the Tempietto di San Concordio near Lucca's train station for easy access .

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

If you plan to walk or hike along the aqueduct, good footwear is essential .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tempietto di San Concordio

Tempietto di San Concordio

Lucca (near train station)

The starting point of the aqueduct, a charming cistern temple offering a glimpse into its historical function.

The Nottolini Aqueduct Arches

The Nottolini Aqueduct Arches

Stretching from Lucca towards Capannori

An impressive 19th-century engineering feat with numerous arches, a testament to Roman-inspired construction.

Aqueduct Crossing the A11 Highway

Aqueduct Crossing the A11 Highway

Autostrada A11

A unique sight where the historic aqueduct dramatically spans the modern highway, showcasing a blend of old and new.

Tempietto-Cisterna di Guamo

Tempietto-Cisterna di Guamo

Capannori

The destination cistern temple, a picturesque spot where water was collected from mountain springs .

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

The Tempietto di Nottolini and its aqueduct are best enjoyed during daylight hours for optimal views and safety. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds, especially if you plan to hike along the aqueduct path. Check for any ongoing restoration work, as sections might be temporarily inaccessible.Instagram

Accessibility & Exploration

While parts of the aqueduct may be under restoration,Reddit there are often accessible footpaths for walking. The area around the Tempietto di San Concordio near the train station is a good starting point. For longer hikes, comfortable footwear is recommended.Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Pleasant for walking
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Lo sapevi che.../ Hai mai notato L'acquedotto spezzato sull'A11? Noi lo abbiamo cercato 🔍#stranezze #tiraccontolitalia #tiraccontolatoscana #acquedotto #acquedottonottolini #lucca
@viaggiandoinjimny
871 likes • 23.2K views

🚶‍♀️ Start at San Concordio

Begin your exploration at the Tempietto di San Concordio near Lucca's train station for easy access.TikTok

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

If you plan to walk or hike along the aqueduct, good footwear is essential.Instagram

Risalita dell’Acquedotto Nottolini: dalle porte di Lucca fino all’Osservatorio di Capannori 🗺️🥾💚💦 Percorso di media difficoltà lunghezza 10 km (andata e ritorno) con partenza vicino alla stazione di Lucca (Tempietto di San Concordio) ⚠️ attuali lavori in corso con interruzione percorso⚠️ tratto dall’autostrada A11 a Via Sorbano del Giudice: spostando la partenza in Via Sorbano del Giudice il pe...
maremmagreenpassion
460 likes • 19K views
Magiche sorgenti incanalate in un invaso davvero suggestivo,! Metti un architetto ingegnere come Lorenzo Nottolini, una verde vallata ancestrale ricca di acqua e un acquedotto che da Lucca, come una linea di fuga corre da un tempietto all'altro con regolari arcate e contrafforti fino a congiungersi con la sinuosa linea di uno spettacolare invaso!! Un luogo incantato, ogni volta che ci torno mi sor...
a.aurora_guida_gae
42 likes • 2.2K views

🚧 Check for closures

Sections might be under restoration, so be prepared for potential detours.Reddit

🚗 Divided by highway

See the unique sight of the aqueduct crossing the A11 highway.TikTok

💧Via degli acquedotti tappa 1 💧 Da Lucca a Vorno 9km Indicazioni: 📍Dal centro di Lucca segui per la stazione e arriva al tempietto cisterna di San Concordio. 📍Percorri tutto l’acquedotto Nottolini per circa 3km e non farti ingannare dalle frecce di altri cammini! Vai sempre dritto! (Attraverserai anche un ponte che passa sull’autostrada). 📍Al termine dell’acquedotto troverai il tempio di Guamo!...
in.viaggio.con.clere
245 likes • 9.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Start at San Concordio

Begin your exploration at the Tempietto di San Concordio near Lucca's train station for easy access.TikTok

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

If you plan to walk or hike along the aqueduct, good footwear is essential.Instagram

🚧 Check for closures

Sections might be under restoration, so be prepared for potential detours.Reddit

🚗 Divided by highway

See the unique sight of the aqueduct crossing the A11 highway.TikTok

🍽️ Dining nearby

Consider dining at La Casina Delle Rose for a unique experience within the aqueduct area.Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.4
(710 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Nottolini Aqueduct an impressive historical structure, particularly its numerous arches and the unique highway crossing. However, some reviews mention ongoing restoration work and a desire for better maintenance and surrounding landscape development. It's often seen as a worthwhile visit, especially for its historical significance and photographic potential, though some feel it might not warrant a long trek if time is limited.Reddit

"On the train station end, it seems under restoration.
you can however still walk along the aquaduct as theres footpath."

Encik Nizam (e-jump)

"Unfortunately it was on repair when we get there. But anyway, dont expect much. Nevertheless its just a 5 min walks from train station so you could pay a visiti"

Akınalp Fidan

"Sad to say, this is a great structure in need of TLC. The bridge across A11 is closed to all. Only a short walk from the train station. This could be a wonderful bike/hike path to the “source” in the mountains or to Pisa would be great."

PDC114

What People Like

Impressive arches
Historical engineering
Unique highway crossing

What People Dislike

Needs restoration
Uneven terrain
Surrounding landscape

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Tempietto di San Concordio, a starting point for the aqueduct, is easily accessible from Lucca's train station. You can walk from the station or take a short taxi ride. For other parts of the aqueduct, driving or cycling are good options.TikTokInstagram

Parking availability can vary. There are usually parking options near the Tempietto di San Concordio. If you're exploring further along the aqueduct, look for parking in the towns you pass through, like Capannori.Instagram

Yes, the Tempietto di San Concordio is very close to the Lucca train station. For other sections, local buses might be an option, but checking schedules in advance is recommended.

The aqueduct path is popular with cyclists, offering a scenic route. However, be aware of uneven terrain and potential closures on certain sections.Instagram

You can see the aqueduct crossing the A11 highway from the highway itself if you're driving, or from designated viewpoints nearby. It's a striking visual contrast.TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, visiting the Nottolini Aqueduct and its tempietti is free of charge. It's an open-air historical site.TikTok

As an outdoor historical monument, there are no strict opening hours. However, it's best to visit during daylight for safety and the best experience.

No, the hiking trails along the aqueduct are free to access. Enjoy the scenic walk without any admission cost.

While not always advertised, local guides or tourism offices in Lucca might offer tours. It's worth inquiring locally for a deeper understanding of its history.Instagram

Some sections might be closed for restoration,Reddit but often, alternative paths are available. It's advisable to check local advisories if you plan a specific route.

📸 📸 Photography

The numerous arches create fantastic photographic opportunities. The section crossing the A11 highway offers a unique contrast.TikTok The Tempietto di San Concordio and the cisterns are also picturesque.

Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, provides beautiful light for capturing the aqueduct's grandeur. Midday can be harsh, but still offers good visibility.

Drone regulations can be strict in Italy. Always check local rules and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone near historical sites.

For the arches, a wider lens can capture their scale. Consider using a tripod for sharper images, especially in lower light conditions. Experiment with different angles to highlight the repeating patterns.

Yes, you can take photos inside the tempietti, but always be respectful of the historical structures and any other visitors.

🎫 🚶‍♀️ Onsite Experience

A short walk from the Tempietto di San Concordio can take about 30 minutes to an hour. Hiking the full length to Guamo and back can take several hours, depending on your pace.Instagram+1

The path is generally flat and well-maintained near the start, but can become more rustic further along. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.Instagram

Restroom facilities are limited along the aqueduct path itself. It's best to use facilities in Lucca or in the villages you pass through.

The initial section near the Tempietto di San Concordio might be manageable with a sturdy stroller, but further along, the terrain can be uneven, making it challenging for wheelchairs and some strollers.Reddit

Built in the mid-19th century by Lorenzo Nottolini, it was designed to bring fresh water from the Serchio valley springs to Lucca, showcasing impressive engineering for its time.Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are dining options. La Casina Delle Rose is a historic restaurant located within the aqueduct area, offering a unique dining experience.Instagram

In Lucca and surrounding areas, you can find traditional Tuscan cuisine, including pasta dishes, local meats, and seafood. La Casina Delle Rose specializes in fish dishes.Instagram

While there aren't designated picnic areas, you can find scenic spots along the path to enjoy a packed lunch, especially if you're hiking.Instagram

Prices can vary. Casual trattorias might offer meals around €15-€25 per person, while more established restaurants like La Casina Delle Rose could be in the €30-€40 range.Instagram

Cafes and bars are more likely to be found in the towns and villages you pass through, rather than directly on the aqueduct path itself.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Nottolini Aqueduct can be a fun and educational outing for families. The initial section near the Tempietto di San Concordio is relatively flat and easy to navigate, making it suitable for younger children and strollers.TikTok Kids will be fascinated by the sheer scale of the arches and the idea of water flowing through them historically.

Consider a shorter walk from the Lucca side to keep the excursion manageable. Pack snacks and water, as facilities are sparse along the path. The unique sight of the aqueduct crossing the highway can also be a point of interest for children.TikTok While longer hikes might be challenging for very young children due to terrain, a visit to the starting point offers a good taste of this historical marvel.

🚶‍♀️ Hikers & Nature Lovers

For hikers, the Nottolini Aqueduct presents a unique trail experience. The full route from Lucca to Guamo and back offers a substantial trek, allowing you to fully appreciate the aqueduct's length and the surrounding natural beauty.Instagram+1 The path provides a blend of historical architecture and scenic Tuscan landscapes.

Be prepared for varying trail conditions, especially on the longer stretches. Comfortable hiking boots are a must. While some Redditors noted the surrounding landscape wasn't always spectacular,Reddit the architectural grandeur of the aqueduct itself is a significant draw. Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna as you explore this historic route.

📸 Photographers

The Nottolini Aqueduct is a dream for photographers, offering endless opportunities for capturing striking images. The repeating arches create a powerful sense of perspective and scale, perfect for wide-angle shots.Instagram The contrast between the ancient structure and modern elements, like the A11 highway crossing, provides unique photographic narratives.TikTok

Aim for the golden hours of sunrise or sunset to capture the aqueduct in its most flattering light. The Tempietto di San Concordio and the cisterns also offer charming subjects. Remember to experiment with different angles and compositions to highlight the aqueduct's impressive engineering and its integration with the landscape.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Engineering Marvel of Lorenzo Nottolini

The Nottolini Aqueduct is a remarkable feat of 19th-century engineering, designed by Lorenzo Nottolini to solve Lucca's water supply issues. Inspired by Roman aqueducts, it features a series of elegant arches that stretch for kilometers, showcasing a blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal.Instagram The construction utilized local materials and traditional techniques, demonstrating a deep understanding of hydraulics and structural integrity.

The aqueduct's primary function was to channel water from the springs in the Serra Vespaiata and the surrounding hills towards Lucca. It culminates in impressive tempietti-cisterns, such as the one at San Concordio and another at Guamo, which served as collection and distribution points.Instagram The aqueduct's journey is punctuated by its dramatic crossing of the A11 highway, a striking juxtaposition of historical and modern infrastructure.TikTok

Despite some sections being under restoration,Reddit the aqueduct remains a significant historical monument and a popular destination for walkers and cyclists. Its enduring presence is a testament to Nottolini's vision and the enduring legacy of Italian engineering. Exploring its path offers a unique perspective on the region's history and landscape.

Exploring the Nottolini Aqueduct Path

The Nottolini Aqueduct offers a fantastic opportunity for a scenic walk or bike ride, with various lengths to suit different preferences. A popular starting point is the Tempietto di San Concordio near Lucca's train station, from where you can follow the aqueduct's path for a shorter excursion.TikTok This initial section is often well-maintained and provides excellent views of the arches.

For those seeking a longer adventure, the aqueduct extends for several kilometers towards Capannori and Guamo.Instagram+1 This longer route allows you to experience more of the aqueduct's grandeur and the surrounding Tuscan countryside. Be prepared for varied terrain, which can become more natural and less paved the further you venture from Lucca.Reddit Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended for any extended exploration.

It's important to note that parts of the aqueduct may be undergoing restoration, which could temporarily affect access to certain sections.Reddit Always check for local advisories before embarking on a long hike. The journey along the aqueduct is not just about the structure itself but also about immersing yourself in the peaceful landscape and appreciating the historical context of this impressive watercourse.

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