Palazzo Mansi-Lucca

An April shower wasn’t going to keep me inside during my stay in Lucca, but when it started pouring I decided it was time to find an indoor activity. It didn’t take me long to make up my mind to visit one of the two Musei Nazionale in town. Although there was one located very close to my apartment on Via Guinigi, I chose to head over to the other side of town and visit the Palazzo Mansi.

It was easy to find the museo and upon entering through the front door I came upon this delightful blue carriage. It immediately transported me back to days gone by and put me in the perfect frame of mind to wander through this elegant building. The palazzo dates back to the late 16th century and it was during the early 1600’s that the Mansi took possession and made it their home. Wealthy agricultural and commercial merchants, the family owned the home until 1966, ten years after the last Mansi heir died and the palazzo was turned over to the state.

I don’t have photos from the interior (not allowed) but I thoroughly enjoyed touring the rooms on the first floor (second floor for us in the US) which was the only part of the building open to the public. There were gorgeous painted ceilings, fabulous paintings and a real feeling for the grandeur of living life as a wealthy family at this time.

Even though it was raining I was keen to go out into the courtyard on the ground floor. I loved this statue and didn’t mind standing there getting wet taking the time to admire it.

There’s something about this view of the building from the courtyard that made me think of New Orleans. The simple turquoise shutters, the graceful tub and that palm tree…

Palazzo Mansi
Via Galli Tassi 43
Lucca

Autumn In Tuscany-Cook With Panini Girl In Lucca-come along and explore the hidden charms Lucca with me.