Church of San Giusto, Lucca

The Church of San Giusto in Lucca is a striking example of medieval architecture, built in the second half of the 12th century over a pre-existing religious site. The church owes its name to Giustino Salce, a 12th-century Italian figure.

The façade is a masterpiece of Romanesque design, featuring a mixed decorative scheme. The upper part showcases alternating white and black marble stripes, forming two small superimposed loggias—a distinctive feature in Tuscan architecture. The central portal, crafted by Guidetto’s workshop, is particularly notable for its intricate sculptural details. Two twisting atlases (one now partly missing) support protruding lions flanking the lunette, while additional ornamentation includes vegetal motifs, fantastic creatures, and classical mascarons. The archivolt, echoing the upper façade with its black and white pattern, rests on two cubes adorned with masks of Classical origin.

The side portals are more restrained in decoration but maintain the elaborate capitals found in the central entrance. Above them, simple oculi provide balance, while the central doorway is crowned by a double-mullioned window. The apse's exterior features Lombard bands and two levels of single-mullioned windows, adding to the church’s rhythmic elegance.

The interior underwent significant modifications in the 17th century, embracing the Baroque style. However, in the early 20th century, efforts were made to strip away these later additions to restore the church’s presumed original medieval appearance. Fortunately, some elements of the Baroque period were preserved, reflecting a dialogue between historical layers.

A blend of Romanesque grandeur and Baroque refinement, San Giusto stands as a testament to Lucca’s architectural evolution, capturing the essence of its medieval and later artistic transformations.