St. Andrew's Church (Chiesa di Sant'Andrea), Lucca

Nestled along Sant’Andrea Street in the heart of Lucca, Saint Andrew’s Church (Chiesa di Sant’Andrea) is a historic religious site with deep medieval roots. Originally documented in the 11th century, the church underwent a complete reconstruction in the late 12th century, shaping its current architectural form.

Built with rows of sandstone, the structure features a single nave with an apse and was once crowned by a blind loggia, which was filled in by the late 17th century. The central portal, attributed to the master craftsman Guidetto, is an exquisite example of Romanesque sculpture, adorned with a vine motif and flanked by two lions battling warriors-a signature element of the artist’s work.

By the 14th century, Lucca’s noble families enriched the church with new chapels, frescoes, and altarpieces, elevating its artistic and spiritual significance. A significant transformation came in 1686, when the roof structure was altered, a barrel vault was introduced, and architect Domenico Martinelli designed a majestic high altar for the presbytery.

Historically, the church was known as Sant’Andrea in Pelleria, referencing the leather-tanning activities that once took place in the nearby ditch along the street. Today, Saint Andrew’s Church continues to serve as a place of worship and is home to the Community of Sant’Egidio, preserving its centuries-old legacy within Lucca’s historic center.