Exploring Volterra, in the Heart of Tuscany

Are you looking for a town in Tuscany that offers a lovely blend of history, culture, and natural beauty? Go to Volterra. Located in the province of Pisa, in the heart of Tuscany, it sits on a hill 531 meters (1,742 feet) above sea level, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

History of Volterra

Volterra’s history stretches back over 3,000 years.

Originally an important center for the Etruscan civilization, Volterra was known as Velathri. The city later became a flourishing Roman municipium and became famous for its alabaster craftsmanship.

Throughout the Middle Ages, Volterra was a significant bishopric and enjoyed periods of prosperity under various rulers, including the Medici family of Florence. The rich history is still evident today in the city’s architecture, museums, and archaeological sites.

Main Attractions in Volterra

Many are the things to visit in this gorgeous town. Here is a brief list of our preferred ones.

1. Piazza dei Priori: This historic square is the heart of Volterra, surrounded by medieval buildings, including the Palazzo dei Priori, the oldest town hall in Tuscany.
   
2. Volterra Cathedral (Duomo): Built in the 12th century, the cathedral boasts a beautiful Romanesque façade and an intricately decorated interior with artworks from various periods.
   
3. Roman Theatre: Dating back to the 1st century BC, this ancient theater was excavated in the 1950s and offers a glimpse into the city’s Roman past.
   
4. Etruscan Museum (Museo Etrusco Guarnacci): One of the oldest public museums in Europe, it houses a vast collection of Etruscan artifacts, including the famous funerary urns and the “Ombra della Sera” statue.
   
5. Fortezza Medicea: This imposing fortress, built in the 14th century, dominates the city skyline. Although it’s currently a prison and not open to the public, people can admire it from the outside.
   
6. Palazzo Viti: A splendid Renaissance palace turned museum, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of a wealthy Volterran family. The palace is filled with period furnishings, artworks, and alabaster sculptures.
   
7. Alabaster Workshops: Volterra is famous for its alabaster. Visiting one of the many workshops in the city provides insight into this ancient craft, and you can purchase unique alabaster souvenirs.
   
8. Porta all’Arco: This ancient Etruscan gate, dating back to the 4th century BC, is a testament to Volterra’s long history and strategic importance.
   

Things to Do in Town

After strolling through the Historic Center, wandering the narrow cobblestone streets, and enjoying the medieval ambiance, it is normal to get a little hungry. In Volterra there are plenty of restaurant and trattorias where you can taste the local cuisine: don’t miss the chance to try ribollita (a hearty vegetable soup), wild boar, and local cheeses.

Where there is food there is also wine. The area around Volterra is popular for its excellent wines. Why don’t you add to your itinerary a visit to a vineyard or a winery for tours and tastings?

Are you into festivals? If you visit the town in the summer, you might catch the Volterra AD 1398, a medieval reenactment festival that brings the city’s history to life with costumes, markets, and entertainment.

Did you know that…

Volterra is the town where Stephenie Meyer set part of News Moon, the second book in the Twilight Saga. However, the filming of the movie did not take place in Volterra but in Montepulciano

Nearby Attractions

• San Gimignano: Known as the “Town of Fine Towers,” this UNESCO World Heritage Site is just a short drive from Volterra. Its medieval architecture and beautiful skyline are not to be missed.
• Siena: Famous for its Palio horse race and stunning cathedral, Siena offers a rich cultural experience and is less than an hour away by car.
• Pisa: Home to the iconic Leaning Tower, Pisa is about an hour’s drive from Volterra. Explore the Piazza dei Miracoli and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this historic city.
• Florence: The capital of Tuscany, Florence is a treasure trove of Renaissance art and architecture. It’s about an hour and a half from Volterra and perfect for a day trip.
• Val d’Orcia: Val d’Orcia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This enchanting valley, at about an hour and a half drive to the southeast, shows landscapes that seem to come straight out from a Renaissance painting. Rolling hills, dotted with cypress trees, medieval villages like Pienza and Montalcino, and rustic farmhouses, characterize this picturesque region. You can hike through the stunning countryside, or relax in the thermal baths of Bagno Vignoni.
  

How to Reach Volterra

Volterra is accessible by various modes of transport. However, the most convenient way is to reach it by car.

The city is well-connected to major Tuscan cities like Florence, Pisa, and Siena. From Florence, take the Florence-Pisa-Livorno (FI-PI-LI) highway and follow signs to Volterra. From Pisa, take the SS439.