Lucca, a city rich in history and culture, is not only famous for its medieval walls and Romanesque churches but also for its culinary traditions passed down from generation to generation. Behind many of the local dishes and ingredients lie fascinating stories and legends that reflect the authentic soul of this Tuscan city.

The Feast of Saint Zita in Lucca is a special occasion that celebrates not only the patron saint of the city but also the rich cultural and religious tradition that defines this ancient Tuscan community. Every year, on April 27, the people of Lucca and visitors gather to honor Saint Zita, the humble maid who became venerated for her charity and dedication to the community.

The celebration has deep roots in Lucca’s medieval past, when Saint Zita, born in the 13th century, devoted her life to serving others while working as a domestic servant for a noble family in the city. Her humility and generosity became legendary, and after her death in 1272, she was proclaimed a saint. Her tomb in the Church of San Frediano became a destination for pilgrimages.

The day of the festival begins early in the morning, when the bells of Lucca’s churches ring joyfully to announce the start of the celebrations. The streets around the Basilica of San Frediano and the Church of Santa Zita fill with color and sound, as locals set up stalls and altars dedicated to the city’s patron saint.

One of the most distinctive elements of the celebration is the flower market, which stretches along the main streets of the historic center. Flowers, symbols of purity and renewal, are carried in procession and offered as tributes to Saint Zita, adorning altars and churches with a variety of colors and fragrances that fill the air.

Centuries-old traditions blend with the vibrancy of modern life, creating a unique experience that brings together spirituality, culture, and conviviality in one unforgettable day.