Church San Pietro In Somaldi - Lucca - Tuscany

The Church of San Pietro Somaldi is located in the square of the same name to the east of the amphitheater near the medieval city walls. The Lombard origin of the church is reflected in its eponymous name, which is derived from Sumualdo, founder of the early church in 763. The building was rebuilt at the end of the 12th century and the work was completed in the 14th century with the top of the bell tower and the apse in brick.

The facade dates from the second half of the 13th century and shows the typical features of Lucchese architecture. Built in sandstone with sparse white listature, it ends with a blind arcade that has swollen and leaved capitals and overhangs. Of great importance is the central portal whose lintel represents the keys of Saint Peter, by Guido Bigarelli da Como in 1248.

Inside the church is the organ played by Maestro Giacomo Puccini before his transfer to Milan. The organ is a 17th-century pregevolissimo instrument, which has always attracted admiration from all the organists who played it.

Willem Vandenameele