Description The Baroque Affair: Lucca

A hand-painted entrance hall draws you into a world of Baroque grandeur, setting the mood before you've even reached the main rooms. The living and dining space unfolds beneath ornate coffered ceilings – the kind made for long lunches and lingering evenings. Designed by architect Maria Oliva in collaboration with ArchFlorence, this apartment honours its classical Lucchese roots at every turn, right down to the main suite's marble bathroom with its twin onyx basins. Outside, Torre Guinigi is a four-minute walk, Piazza dell'Anfiteatro – built over a Roman amphitheatre – is seven-minutes away, and Lucca's celebrated ramparts and Romanesque basilicas are all close at hand.

Home truths:
* The twin beds in the fourth bedroom can be pushed together to make a double – let your host know in advance if you'd prefer that configuration.
* You'll have your own private entrance here.
* Given the home's central spot, expect to hear some street noise throughout your stay.
* This home is lift accessible – it may suit guests with reduced mobility.