Le Colonne
A restored Fascist-era public building transformed into a multipurpose center combining restaurant, bike-sharing hub, and cultural facilities in the Lucca hills.
At a glance
Le Colonne stands in Matraia, a hamlet 4 kilometers from Lucca’s plain, commanding a sweeping view across olive groves famous for producing Lucca oil. Originally a Casa del Fascio (Fascist party house), the building underwent comprehensive restoration between 2016 and 2018 to become a hub for both residents and visitors seeking rest, refreshment, and cultural engagement.
History
Inaugurated in 1936, the building exemplified Fascist-era public architecture through its distinctive design. After World War II, the property transferred from state control and was acquired by the Municipality of Capannori in 1958 for 2.6 million lire. Until the 1990s, part of it housed an elementary school; it later served as a polling station. By the 2010s, the structure had fallen into severe disrepair.
In 2015, the municipality approved an ambitious renovation project to recover the deteriorating building and repurpose it as a community asset. Funded through municipal resources, regional tender programs, and banking foundations, work proceeded from 2016 through 2018.
What you see
The building retains its recognizable 1930s architectural character. Renovation transformed the roof structure into a sun terrace overlooking the Lucca landscape. Ground-floor spaces include a tourist information point, bike-sharing station, small relaxation center with solarium and showers, bar, and restaurant.
Additional facilities incorporate a library, playroom, conference room, spaces for local associations, a listening center, and amenities for Via Francigena pilgrims. The entire structure meets accessibility standards for people with disabilities and visual impairments. A “garden of taste” complements the dining facilities.
Cultural significance
Le Colonne represents a pragmatic approach to heritage conservation: acknowledging a building’s historical origins while redirecting its function toward contemporary public benefit. The restoration demonstrates how structures associated with Italy’s Fascist past can be adapted for community use without erasing their architectural or historical identity.
The facility anchors cultural tourism in northern Lucca territory, connecting visitors to rural landscapes, local gastronomy, and regional cycling routes while serving the social needs of Capannori residents.
Key facts
- Address: Via Comunale di Matraia, 33, 55012 Capannori
- Coordinates: 43.91483235428742, 10.574045777320862
- Opened: 1936 (as Casa del Fascio); restored 2016–2018
- Telephone: 0583 402390
- Website: ristorantelecolonne.lucca.it
Practical information
Le Colonne functions as both a restaurant and public facility. The site offers dining, a bar, bike-sharing access, tourist information, and relaxation amenities. The facility is fully accessible to visitors with mobility impairments and visual disabilities. Hours and seasonal closures should be confirmed via the official website or phone.
Getting there
The restaurant is located in the hamlet of Matraia, 4 kilometers north of Lucca’s central plain, on the Pizzorna road. Visitors approaching from Lucca can follow local signs toward the Pizzorna direction. Parking information is available through the restaurant directly or online.
Sources & resources
Find it on the map
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