I described Lucca as una città bella (a beautiful city), tranquilla (calm), sicuro (safe), accogliente (welcoming), and con musica e arte (with music and art). I also mentioned my admiration for le strade Medievale (the Medieval streets). In response, he used a word that was unfamiliar to me yet instantly understandable—a term that encapsulated the essence of the city perfectly: Lucca is vivibile.
The term vivibile translates to ‘livable,’ and it perfectly captures what makes Lucca so special. Building a life here is a joy because the city truly is livable. The historic walls create a comforting embrace (un abbraccio) and provide wonderful spaces for walking, running, cycling, and socializing.
Lucca possesses all the charm and features of a Medieval Italian hill town but without the steep inclines (which is great for aging knees and hips). The piazzas are adorned with churches, statues, and fountains. The stunning wooden doors—some ancient and weathered, others freshly painted, often embellished with intricate ironwork—are a photographer’s dream. Balconies burst with vibrant flowers, and enticing cafés, pasticcerie (pastry shops), and restaurants beckon. Fresh produce and fine wine can be enjoyed at reasonable prices. Throughout the year, Lucca hosts a vibrant array of events—concerts, festivals, art exhibitions, garden shows, and operas—all within easy walking distance! Above all, the people of Lucca are amichevole (friendly).
