Bell Tower of Altopascio
Photos
At a glance
- Region
- Tuscany
- Province
- Lucca (LU)
- Town
- Altopascio
The bell tower is the most recognisable survivor of the ancient Hospice of the Knights of the Tau of Altopascio (LU), a key stop on the Via Francigena in the plain between Lucca and Florence.
History
The pilgrims’ hospice
The tall tower of the Hospice, with a fire always burning on its terrace, and its bell, the “Smarrita”, were an important landmark for travellers in the surrounding marshy areas. In the hospital pilgrims found shelter, care and food; the friars’ hospitality was so renowned that Boccaccio mentions it in the Decameron (VI, 10) with the “calderon d’Altopascio”. The complex included the hospital, the bell tower and the church of San Jacopo.
A tradition that continues
The memory of this hospitality is renewed in the feast of San Giacomo, at the end of July, with a historical procession and the distribution of food from a great cauldron in the square.
What to see
It is a bell tower rising in the historic centre, beside the church and the buildings of the ancient Magione. Architectural details and measurements: to be confirmed.
Where it is
In the centre of Altopascio, province of Lucca, Tuscany.
Practical information
Tickets and where to buy them
To be confirmed.
Opening days and hours
To be confirmed.
Where to eat
To be confirmed.
Parking and services
To be confirmed.
Accessibility and other information
To be confirmed.
Opening hours, prices and services often change: before your visit, call the official number or check the castle’s website. Last checked: November 2026.
Sources: Wikipedia – Altopascio
How to get there
Source: Castelli, Rocche e Fortificazioni in Italia (Facebook)
