The Tuscany or Martana Gate
(16th - 17th century)
There were two monumental gates included in the 16th century embattled walls, which the Prince Antonio Alberico Cybo made erect, along the main route and bearing of the historical town.
The town was above all expanded longitudinally eastwards and westwards according to the old Pedemontano or Romeo course.
Eastwards, towards Lucca and Florence, the large Tuscany Gate opens even today. It is satisfactorily preserved although it underwent a series of changes in the long run.
The general imprint of the plan has the properties of a classicist mannerism in a simple and sever style. It is dominated by the traditional introduction of a main frame holding the entrance light and consisting of large ashlars laid one upon the other, with lower arch barrel-vault and with pointed keystone on the upper part.
The two curtains on either sides show some element of ashlar-work and are characterised by empty niches in the upper part, which once probably contained statues, and by two large horizontal loopholes in the lower part, which are framed by strong marble ingots.
The upper part consists in a thick architrave with a marble scroll ornament in the centre. The great cybeo coat of arms in the tympanum has been spoiled during the Napoleonic age.