Porta Santa Maria (St. Maria's Gate), Lucca

Saint Maria’s Gate (Porta Santa Maria) is one of the grand entrances to the historic city of Lucca. Situated on the northern side of the city's impressive Renaissance walls, the gate was constructed between 1549 and 1592 as part of Lucca’s defensive fortifications. Designed by architect Ginese Bresciani and built under the direction of Michelangelo Gabrielli, this gateway exemplifies the grandeur of Renaissance architecture while serving as a vital passage into the city.

Originally, the gate featured a single entrance, but later modifications introduced two additional openings to accommodate increased traffic. One of the most striking features of Saint Maria’s Gate is the marble statue of the Virgin Mary, positioned in a niche above the entrance as a dedication to the city's religious heritage. Flanking the gate are statues of panthers, symbolic of Lucca’s identity and resilience. The central arch features frescoes of the Annunciation, with the Archangel Gabriel and the Madonna. Below Saint Peter’s bas-relief, the inscription "Libertas" highlights Lucca’s historic independence.

Beyond its architectural significance, Saint Maria’s Gate has played a role in Lucca’s transportation history. From 1883 to 1932, the gate served as a terminus for the Lucca-Ponte a Moriano tramway, which was later extended to Saint Peter's Gate (Porta San Pietro). The tramway has since been decommissioned, and today, the central passage of the gate is pedestrianized, while the side openings allow for vehicle transit.

Walking through Saint Maria’s Gate leads visitors into the heart of Lucca’s medieval streets, where they can explore a labyrinth of historic alleys, Renaissance rooftops, ancient churches, aqueducts, fountains, and charming hidden gardens. The area around the gate is lined with traditional trattorias, artisan shops, and historic cafés, offering a perfect blend of past and present.