Teatro del Giglio, Lucca

Theatre in Lucca

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Chabe01

Just a few steps from Palazzo Ducale on Piazza Napoleone, Teatro del Giglio stands as Lucca's cultural living room-a refined 17th-century “public theatre” that has welcomed audiences for generations. With more than 700 seats spread across the stalls, boxes, and gallery, it offers excellent acoustics and intimate sightlines, the kind of space where you can feel the orchestra stirring and sense the history in every curtain rise. Recognised as a Theatre of Tradition in 1985, it continues to host opera, drama, concerts, and festivals that keep Lucca's musical heritage very much alive.

The theatre took shape in the mid-1600s following a decree by the Council of the Republic of Lucca, making it one of the oldest public theatres in Italy. Its current name, Teatro del Giglio, honours Marie Louise of Bourbon, Duchess of Lucca, and recalls the Bourbon coat of arms with its three golden lilies. Over the centuries, renovations and expansions-especially the major 1817-1819 overhaul by architect Giovanni Lazzarini and engineer Lorenzo Nottolini-shaped the theatre into the elegant Neoclassical jewel you see today, often visited on walking tours of Lucca that focus on the city's artistic and musical traditions.

History and Significance of Teatro del Giglio
Things to See and Do in Teatro del Giglio
How to Get to Teatro del Giglio
Practical Tips on Visiting Teatro del Giglio
Where to Stay close to Teatro del Giglio
Is Teatro del Giglio Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Teatro del Giglio
Nearby Attractions to Teatro del Giglio

History and Significance of Teatro del Giglio

Teatro del Giglio’s story begins in the mid-17th century, when Lucca’s republican government decided to create a true “public theatre” for its citizens. This move reflected both cultural ambition and civic pride: a dedicated space where opera, drama, and music could be enjoyed not only by nobility but by a wider public. The theatre soon became a focal point of social life, with performances marking major religious feasts, political events, and carnival seasons.

The most decisive transformation came between 1817 and 1819, when Giovanni Lazzarini and Lorenzo Nottolini were commissioned to renovate and modernise the building. They reconfigured the auditorium, refined the façade, and improved the stage and technical systems, bringing the theatre in line with contemporary standards while preserving its elegance. The renaming to “Teatro del Giglio” in honour of Marie Louise of Bourbon, Duchess of Lucca, signalled a new era and linked the venue to the Bourbon dynasty's symbol of three golden lilies.

Throughout the 19th century, the theatre became a stage for Italian opera history. It scored its first major triumph in 1831 with Gioachino Rossini's “William Tell,” conducted by the legendary Niccolò Paganini, and went on to host many leading singers of the age, including Nicola Tacchinardi, Gilbert Duprez, and Maria Malibran. Giacomo Puccini, Lucca's most famous son, personally oversaw the staging of several of his works here, notably “Edgar” in 1891, while Arturo Toscanini conducted Catalani's “La Wally” in 1892. These illustrious names cemented Teatro del Giglio as one of the top attractions in Lucca for anyone passionate about opera and performance.

Things to See and Do in Teatro del Giglio

The best way to experience Teatro del Giglio is, of course, to attend a performance. Whether it's a Puccini opera, a symphonic concert, a ballet, or contemporary theatre, being part of the audience lets you appreciate the hall's warm acoustics and intimate scale. From the stalls you feel close to the stage; from the boxes and gallery you gain a more panoramic view of the horseshoe-shaped auditorium, with its layered tiers and decorative details.

If you have the chance, take time to admire the theatre’s interior architecture before the lights go down. The layout reflects the classic Italian opera-house model: a central parterre, encircling tiers of boxes, and a gallery above, all focused on the proscenium arch. Look up to notice the ceiling and ornamental elements that frame the chandelier-details that speak to the theatre’s 19th-century makeover under Lazzarini and Nottolini. Even without a performance, some visits or guided tours allow you to see the auditorium and learn about its history.

For opera lovers, there's something special about sitting in the same building where Puccini once worked on staging his own operas and where Paganini's bow drew thunderous applause. If your dates are flexible, check what's on and try to align your visit with a production that interests you; even a modern play or concert becomes more memorable in such a storied setting. Afterwards, you can step straight out into Piazza Napoleone for an evening stroll or a drink, rounding off a night that feels very much part of Lucca's living culture.

How to Get to Teatro del Giglio

Teatro del Giglio is located in the square of the same name, just off Piazza Napoleone in the heart of Lucca's historic centre. Once you are inside the city walls, it's only a short walk from major landmarks like Palazzo Ducale and the nearby shopping streets; simply follow signs for Piazza Napoleone and you'll find the theatre a few metres away.

For international visitors, the closest major airports are Pisa International Airport and Florence Airport, both offering frequent flights from across Europe and beyond. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Lucca on Booking.com. From either airport, you can travel on to Lucca and then walk into the walled centre to reach the theatre.

Lucca's train station is situated just outside the southern side of the city walls, near Porta San Pietro, and is connected by regular regional trains to Pisa, Florence, and other Tuscan towns.Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy. From the station, walk through the gate and follow the streets towards Piazza Napoleone; the route takes about 10-15 minutes and leads you directly to Teatro del Giglio.

If you are travelling by car, Lucca is accessible via the A11 motorway and well-signed local roads.If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you. Because the historic centre is a limited traffic zone, it's best to park in one of the car parks outside or just inside the walls and continue on foot to Piazza Napoleone and the theatre-a pleasant stroll that helps set the mood for an evening performance.

Practical Tips on Visiting Teatro del Giglio

Suggested tips: Arrive a little early to pick up tickets, find your seat, and take a moment to enjoy the architecture before the performance begins.
Best time to visit: Evenings during the opera and concert season are ideal, but matinees and special events can also offer a quieter experience.
Entrance fee: Ticket prices vary depending on the performance and seating area, with different rates for stalls, boxes, and gallery seats.
Opening hours: Teatro del Giglio – check the official programme for upcoming operas, concerts, plays, and special events.
Official website: https://www.teatrodelgigliogiacomopuccini.it/it/
How long to spend: Most performances last between 2 and 3 hours including intervals; allow extra time before and after to soak up the atmosphere in the theatre and piazza.
Accessibility: The theatre offers designated seating and access solutions for visitors with reduced mobility; it’s advisable to confirm arrangements when booking your ticket.
Facilities: On-site facilities typically include restrooms, cloakroom services during performances, and sometimes a small bar or refreshment area for intervals.
Photography tip: Interior photography may be restricted during performances; if permitted before the show, focus on the curve of the boxes and the view from your seat rather than using flash.
Guided tours: Occasionally, guided visits or special open days provide access behind the scenes and into areas not normally seen by the public-keep an eye on announcements.
Nearby food options: The streets around Piazza Napoleone are full of cafés, wine bars, and restaurants, making it easy to enjoy dinner before the show or a drink afterwards.

Where to Stay close to Teatro del Giglio

Staying near Teatro del Giglio makes it easy to stroll to evening performances and back to your room without worrying about transport. A charming option within the walls is Albergo San Martino, located close to the cathedral and just a short walk from Piazza Napoleone and the theatre. For guests who enjoy a blend of comfort and a slightly quieter setting while remaining central, Hotel Ilaria offers easy access across the old town to Teatro del Giglio. If you'd like to immerse yourself in historic surroundings, Palazzo Alexander provides characterful rooms in a period building, ideal for combining cultural evenings at the theatre with days exploring Lucca’s churches, towers, and walls.

Is Teatro del Giglio Worth Visiting?

Teatro del Giglio is absolutely worth visiting, especially if you have even a passing interest in opera, classical music, or historic theatres. Its intimate scale, excellent acoustics, and long association with figures like Paganini and Puccini make it far more than just another performance venue-it's a place where Italian musical history feels close and tangible. Even if you don't manage to catch a full opera, attending a concert or play, or simply seeing the interior on a special visit, adds a memorable layer to your time in Lucca. For many travellers, an evening at Teatro del Giglio becomes a highlight of their stay in the city.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.5 (1,070)

Teatro del Giglio on Piazza del Giglio in Lucca is a traditional, mid-sized Italian theatre with a charming, historic-town atmosphere; visitors praise its beauty, good sightlines and acoustics, and intimate scale (some note limited legroom in the stalls), and it sits amid lively bars and nightlife.

Gapperelle

2 years ago

"Saw Marcus Miller in Concert there. Beautiful place and great sized venue."

Kris Straszak

2 years ago

"Sweet little theater. Surrounded by bars, doesn't contain one though. Leg space in the stalls is quite limited."

KID & FAMILY ΠΑΙΔΙ & ΟΙΚΟΓΕΝΕΙΑ

2 years ago

"Middle age atmosphere in all town Theatro del Giglio , you can’t forget to visit !"

FAQs for Visiting Teatro del Giglio

Booking in advance is strongly recommended for popular operas, concerts, and weekend performances, while less-known events may still have same-day availability.

There is no strict dress code; smart-casual is usually fine, though some people choose to dress up a bit more for premieres or special evenings.

Occasionally, guided tours or open days allow visitors to see the interior; check local information or the current programme for such opportunities.

Many operas and plays are in Italian, but the music, staging, and atmosphere can still be very enjoyable even if you don’t understand every word.

Yes, though suitability depends on the performance; some concerts and special events are particularly welcoming to younger audiences.

Nearby Attractions to Teatro del Giglio

Palazzo Ducale - Historic palace on Piazza Napoleone, once the seat of Lucca's rulers and now home to civic offices and museums.
Piazza Napoleone - Wide, tree-framed square that hosts concerts, festivals, and markets, and forms the setting for the theatre's main entrance.
Cathedral of San Martino - Lucca's duomo, renowned for the Volto Santo and the delicate tomb of Ilaria del Carretto, just a short walk away.
San Michele in Foro - Striking Romanesque church on the former Roman forum, with a richly sculpted marble façade and lively surrounding square.
Lucca's Historical Walls - Fully preserved Renaissance fortifications encircling the city, ideal for a pre-show or post-show stroll with views over rooftops and hills.

The Teatro del Giglio appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Lucca!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

Read our full story here

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!