Rione Pelleria, One of Lucca’s Oldest Districts

Located in the historic center of Lucca, Pelleria is one of the city’s oldest districts. Today it’s

a quiet residential area, but its layout and name still reflect its medieval origins and its long

connection to local crafts and trade.

A District Shaped by Work and Water

The name “Pelleria” is linked to the processing of hides and leather. In the Middle Ages, this

part of the city was associated with tanning and related activities that required large amounts

of water and were regulated for both hygiene and taxation reasons.

Originally, leatherworking (Cojaria) and fur processing (Pelleria) were distinct and located in

different areas. Over time—especially after changes to the city’s water channels—these

activities concentrated around the Church of San Tommaso, which remains the geographical

reference point of the district today. The craft persisted here until roughly the late 18th

century. Casa Capolino itself is located in via delle Conce, alluding to the tannery activity, in

Italian called ‘conceria’.

The Everyday Center of Lucca

Until relatively recently, Lucca was socially divided into neighborhoods with clear identities.

Pelleria was a working district, dense with small businesses: workshops, storage spaces,

grocers, textile shops, and artisan labs.

Before modern traffic routes and later city gates were opened, this area functioned as a

practical hub. It was where residents came to buy everyday goods—food, clothing,

tools—while more prestigious streets like Via Fillungo were frequented by wealthier buyers.

Daily life extended into the streets: doors remained open, and social life was shared

outdoors. Places like the former Bar Patria and traditional eateries such as Da Giulio were

long-standing meeting points for residents.

The Fountain of Pelleria

Until relatively recently, a small square in Via Pelleria hosted a public fountain where

residents gathered daily. Though it has disappeared, it remains part of local memory.

The original fountain was notable for its design—made of cast iron and unusually refined for

a working-class district. According to local accounts, it was so admired that there were

attempts to move it elsewhere in the city.

It also carried a piece of local folklore: it was said that the water of the fountain had the

power to make women more beautiful. Whether believed or not, this detail reflects how

central the fountain was to everyday life—not just as a utility, but as a social space.

Later attempts to replace it were said to fail repeatedly, reinforcing its almost mythical status.

What to Do Nearby

• Visit the nearby city walls and access the passage under Baluardo Santa Croce,

where a small exhibition explains the history and construction of Lucca’s fortifications

• Walk or cycle along the Renaissance walls, one of the best-preserved defensive

systems in Europe

• Explore the historic center on foot, directly from your doorstep

Eating Nearby

Within the district, Giulio in Pelleria offers traditional local cuisine and continues a long food

tradition in the area. It is a practical option within 50 metres from the apartment.

Why Stay Here

Staying in Pelleria places you inside the historic fabric of Lucca, not just near it. The area is

central, walkable, and still structured around its original streets and uses. It offers direct

access to the main sites while remaining less exposed to tourist flows.