Church of Saints Paolino and Donato, Lucca

The Church of Saints Paolino and Donato, a Renaissance-style minor basilica in Lucca, stands as the city's only example of a church constructed in this architectural style. Originally documented in 738 as San Giorgio, the church underwent multiple transformations, reflecting Lucca's evolving religious and architectural landscape.

After the year 1000, the church was rededicated to Saint Anthony. In 1261, the discovery of Saint Paulinus of Antioch’s relics led to a major reconstruction, incorporating the demolished Church of San Donato. The new church, dedicated to both saints, was redesigned in 1515 by Baccio da Montelupo and completed by Bastiano Bertolani. Its elegant Renaissance marble façade features statues of Saints Paolino and Donato beside the entrance.

The church’s interior features a barrel-vaulted ceiling, stone finishes, and original furnishings, including paintings and sculptures. Notable elements include a marble choir by Vincenzo and Nicolao Civitali and three paintings depicting Lucca’s history-one by Amico Aspertini of the medieval walls, another by Baldassarre di Biagio of the Middle Ages, and a third illustrating the Miracle of San Paolino.

The Church of Saints Paolino and Donato is linked to composer Giacomo Puccini, whose family attended services there. On July 12, 1877, Puccini debuted his first composition in this church, where his early works, including the Mass for Four Voices, were also performed, launching his musical career.

The church is also tied to a legendary event that took place on July 12, 1664, during the feast of San Paolino. A cannon misfired in the square of the bastion of San Donato, sending a deadly burst toward a group of devotees entering the city. Miraculously, no one was harmed-an occurrence attributed to the intervention of Saint Paolino.

As a site of historical, artistic, and cultural significance, the Church of Saints Paolino and Donato remains an essential landmark in Lucca, offering visitors a glimpse into the city's rich heritage and spiritual traditions.