La passeggiata is an important part of life in Italy: in the early evening, people go out for a stroll. Families, or groups of friends, walk slowly down the busy streets, doing some window shopping, enjoying a gelato, but mostly chatting, sharing the latest gossip, talking politics and complaining about the city government's ridiculous ordinance du jour. This is the time of the day where it really feels like you are part of a community.

Of course, this being Italy, it is also a chance to spot the latest fashion trends... or show off your new shoes and Dolce Gabanna purse.

In Lucca, the passeggiata is mostly via Filungo, and on the walls. It is very crowded on Sundays, especially the third Sunday of the month, when stores stay open in the afternoon and Piazza San Michele hosts an open market.

posted by michel and gina, 2005-09-30