Church of St. Simon and Jude (Chiesa dei Santi Simone e Giuda), Lucca

The Church of Saints Simon and Jude, located on Guinigi Street in Lucca, is a remarkable example of Romanesque architecture, though its exact date of construction remains unknown. Built atop the eastern Roman walls, the church's rear rests on ancient fortifications. Spatial constraints prevented lengthwise expansion, giving it a distinctive wide, almost square shape, unlike typical churches of its time.

First mentioned in 1120, the church was likely built in the late 12th century but remained incomplete into the 13th. An inscription notes the roof was finished in 1238, while the façade, completed later, used cost-effective local stone.

The façade features three portals with distinct characteristics: the central and left portals exhibit alternating white limestone and black marble bands, while the right portal incorporates Prato green stone. The asymmetry of these elements has led some historians to speculate about a possible connection to the factional divisions of the Guelphs, who may have entered through designated portals based on their allegiance. The church’s bell tower, built in 1317, no longer stands today.

The church has a basilica layout with three naves supported by Verrucano stone pillars from Guamo. The main nave ends in a small semicircular apse with a now-filled single-lancet window, covered by a fresco of the Madonna and Child with saints and angels. Originally on 13th-century city walls, the fresco was moved here after its original site was demolished.

Among the notable artworks associated with the church is a polyptych by Spinello Aretino for the altar of Saints Jacopo and Filippo, now dispersed between the National Gallery of Parma and a private collection in Mexico City. Additionally, a wooden statue of Saint Ansanus, attributed to Jacopo della Quercia, is preserved in the Archiepiscopal Curia.

Today, the Church of Saints Simon and Jude is deconsecrated and serves as the headquarters of the Agesci Lucca 3 scout group, preserving its historical and architectural significance while adapting to contemporary uses.