The remote and gorgeous hilltop town of Volterra overlooks Tuscany’s scenic countryside. Although smaller in size than many of its Italian counterparts, the town abounds with ancient tradition, rich history, amazing cuisine, and fine art. Part of the beauty of this small town is that it enjoys a steady but not overwhelming wave of tourists, which allows visitors to take in the city in its natural state. Volterra is a fabulous Italian destination for honeymoons, family vacations, romantic getaways, or even a girls’ trip.

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

One of the most attended festivals in Volterra is referred to as Feast Day of 1398 AD. This August event takes place at a garden in the heart of the city and attracts visitors from near and far. During the festival, all things of the medieval period are re-enacted and celebrated featuring cuisine, entertainment, and markets.

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

The Piazza dei Priori is often a visitor favorite. This historic square has been the heart of the city of Volterra for hundreds of years. This square is known for its historic buildings, such as the Torre del Porcellino, the Palazzo dei Priori, and the Volterra Cathedral. The Palazzo dei Priori, which translates to prior’s palace, is a circa thirteenth century palace that is thought to be the first ever built for a city-state in Europe.

A nearby and much smaller city square is that of Piazza San Giovanni. The area is often referred to as Volterra’s religious square and is home to the renowned Baptistery of Volterra. The octagonal baptistery is a favorite stop for many because of its unique black and white striped exterior limited to the front face as well as the baptismal font and altar inside.

To see the grand arched gateway of Porta all’Arco, part of a medieval wall built around the city of Volterra, is a humbling experience. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to stand under the arch and know that your footsteps have traced those of countless men and women who have traveled through this exact spot thousands of years beforehand.

Although the Roman Theater is a stunning sight for anyone to behold, it is particularly dear to history buffs. This ancient gathering place can be traced back to the first century. The theater was used to entertain thousands of spectators with theatrical plays. In later years after the area became largely abandoned, parts of the theater, such as stately columns, were incorporated into other city structures.

INDOOR ACTIVITIES

A must-see religious symbol of the city is the Volterra Cathedral. This ancient structure is as interesting on the outside as it is beautiful on the inside. While the front of the cathedral is largely reminiscent of many other churches in Italy, the backside of the cathedral is characterized by a unique black and white stripe pattern that symbolizes the holiness of the structure. That same pattern is carried through to the inside of the church where visitors will likely be inspired by the grand archways as well as the ornately detailed ceiling.

When it comes to museums, the Guarnacci Etruscan Museum is one of the most popular. Founded in circa the eighteenth century, this museum of history features amazing ancient finds from that span from the Etruscan era to the Roman era. In addition to being known for an expansive coin collection and mosaic floors, it is perhaps best known for being home to more than six hundred Etruscan funerary urns.

Art lovers will delight in a visit to the Civic Art Gallery (Pinacoteca and Civic Museum) in Volterra. This museum, located within the Palazzo Minucci-Solaini, is home to incredible works of art from the Sienese and Florentine schools and also features renowned painter Rosso Fiorentino’s masterpiece of Deposition from the Cross. Be sure to give yourself ample time to wander the museum and soak in the historic art of Volterra.

Volterra’s Museum of Sacred Art is found inside the Church of Sant’Agostino. The museum has an outstanding collection of sacred vestments, sculptures, marble works, and paintings. A smaller section of the museum features musical manuscripts and religious tapestries.

FAMILIES

Many of the outdoor and indoor activities listed above can also double for family activities, however, two more things we recommend adding to the list are a walking tour and food tour of Volterra.

By signing up for a private walking tour, a seasoned guide can take you through the key landmarks of the city as well as some of those that are lesser known, but still of great historical value. Travelers who become familiar with Volterra’s ancient history and tradition often come to appreciate the city in a whole new way. A walking tour is one of the best ways to experience the city and become familiar with local culture and customs.

The region of Tuscany is widely known and revered for its authentic and mouthwatering Italian cuisine, of which Volterra is home to. Consider signing up the family to participate in a city-wide food tour to enjoy the different local specialties of truffles, extra virgin olive oil, and chestnuts. This area is famous for its wide variety of locally made fine wines, so adults may want to take advantage of this availability during their food tour. Dining is an experience in Italy, so be prepared for meals to last up to two hours or so and be sure to pace yourself so you have room for the appetizer, first course, second course, and dessert.

KIDS

Young children who love the magic of fairytales will likely feel like they have entered a chapter of one of their storybooks when they visit the Medici Fortress. This defensive building sits high on the hill and overlooks much of Volterra and its rural surroundings. This circa fifteenth century structure was originally built to protect the city against potential enemies and was actually added on to part of an existing castle from the thirteenth or fourteenth century.

UNIQUE EXPERIENCES

One of the most unique experiences in the city of Volterra is the art and craftsmanship of the mineral alabaster. The city was once home to alabaster mines, some of which are still actively mined today. This white yet translucent mineral has become a symbol of sorts for the city and can be readily seen around town and in local shops. If looking for a one-of-a-kind Volterra souvenir, consider purchasing an alabaster figurine, vase, plate, or bowl.

Those who are intrigued by this stunning medium of art should plan a visit to the Alabaster Museum located in the Minucci Tower. The museum provides guests with a complete history of alabaster from mining to how it was incorporated into ancient culture and now modern-day society.