The 13th September is perhaps the most important day in Lucca’s calendar of events when the Lucchese from all parts of the province and from places around the world come together to honour their city and the Volto Santo, the face of Christ. The legend of the famous Volto Santo is that it was carved by Nicodemus, a disciple of Christ and came to Lucca by divine will and is kept permanently in the Cathedral of San Martino. It has been located there since 1482-84 in the purpose-built and magnificent octagonal tempietto or small temple built in marble by the famous Lucchese sculptor Matteo Civitali.

The festival of the Luminara of Santa Croce whose origins date back to the medieval period is when citizens of Lucca parade through the streets as night falls starting from the church of San Frediano to the Cathedral of San Martino. Shops and properties are meant to use only candles to illuminate the way along the route. As darkness falls crowds gather to watch the procession, many in medieval costume carrying representative banners and religious items, playing hymns, beating drums and singing. Most banners represent local churches and organisations whilst some represent people originally from Lucca now living in far off places such as Sydney and Melbourne Australia, New York and Florida and London. Hundreds take part in the long solemn procession that lasts several hours whilst many more in their thousands line the route to watch.

A service of prayers and singing continue in the Cathedral to mark the occasion that has a special meaning to those with ties to Lucca. This year, as in previous years crowds remain during the evening which concluded with a firework display that ended promptly at midnight. 
Preparation for the event in the streets begins several days before when thousands of individual candles are placed in position on buildings. The number of people gathering in the city on the day attests to their respect for religion, respect for their community and respect for the shared ancient traditions of Lucca and the whole province. Since this was my first time to witness the spectacle, I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and admired the passion and loyalty show by thousands of people in Lucca.