Friday 17th June - Back on the Pilgrim Trail

I was back on the road for 7 am, filling up my water bottles in the square outside, and then walking through the virtually deserted streets of Lucca, going through the inner and outer arched gateways to the fortified city

Then along the side of busy streets, until eventually the traffic eased, and I managed to get into the surrounding countryside... 
Knowing I had a short easy day, I meandered a little, visiting all the open churches, and stopping to read all the memorials as I wandered passed (and of course, coffee and brioche by 9!!) 
all the time looking at the now forming typical Tuscan countryside... The tall slim trees, cloud covered hills, which seemed to go on for ever... 

It was a flat route, although not beautiful as it was mainly along busy roads... By 1230 I was arriving at Altopascio, where I would stop for the night... An ancient town, well known for protecting and welcoming pilgrims...

As I was early I had a full lunch, and afternoon snooze... Before going to the evening mass at the church, very well attended... And pizza tea, before an early night!! 
I've a long day ahead tomorrow...