Palazzo Brancoli Pantera (Brancoli Pantera Palace), Lucca

The Brancoli Pantera Palace, also known as Palazzo Massagli, is a historic 17th-century building located on Vittorio Veneto Street in the heart of Lucca. The palace stands as a refined example of the city’s architectural heritage, preserving the elegance of past centuries while undergoing modifications over time.

One of its most notable features is its private garden, which was not originally present in the 17th-century city maps but appears in an 1843 plan, showcasing a meticulously designed layout with rectangular and circular flowerbeds. However, between the late 19th and early 20th century, significant changes altered its original charm when a garage with a terrace covered by a pergola was added, leading to the partial loss of the garden’s historic character.

Despite these modifications, the garden retains a distinctive irregular shape, with its entrance located on the north side. Visitors can still see gravel pathways winding toward a circular fountain, a focal point of the space. The garden is dominated by a large magnolia tree, surrounded by various flowering plants and a small rose garden, which add to its picturesque and serene ambiance.

The Brancoli Pantera Palace continues to be a silent witness to Lucca’s rich history, with its blend of aristocratic refinement and the subtle marks of urban transformation over time. Whether admired from the street or explored within, it remains a testament to the city’s ability to balance historical preservation with the evolving needs of modern life.