Destinations

Art Town Hill-top town Tuscan Countryside

Volterra

Surreally perched high up on layered cliffs, far from the main routes of communication, the town built of stone is visible from miles with its austere city-walls and its massive Medici Fortress, today a high-security jail. From its hill 550m above sea level, Volterra overlooks the Cecina Valley, one of the most unspoilt areas in Tuscany affording spectacular views as far as the sea. Rich in Etruscan, Roman, Medieval and Renaissance art,  the city still retains traces of its ancient splendours which gradually unfurls as you wander through the narrow streets. Its Etruscan origins are still visible in part of the walls, two gates and the acropolis in the green meadows of the archaeological park; a well preserved Roman theatre stands beyond the Porta Fiorentina and the medieval walls. The narrow paved streets of the historical centre are lined with fine medieval and renaissance buildings whose treasures are collected in the Art Gallery and Museum of Sacred Art. Volterra’s charm goes beyond its historical heritage. This elusive stronghold requires careful and patient attention, it is joy to explore and discover its treasured secrets, to soak up its timeless atmosphere, to experience its slow traditional way of life and its ancient tradition of alabaster carving.

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