what is there to do in volterra

10 Best Things to Do in Volterra, Italy

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What are the best places to visit in Volterra?

Book these experiences for a close-up look at Volterra. 1. Palazzo Viti The family photos add a personal touch to the experience. 2. Piazza dei Priori This was just overall a sweet town in Tuscany to visit. 3. Palazzo dei Priori I also visited the bell tower, which overs breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings.

What is the history of Volterra?

The town still has traces of its Etruscan past - it was one of 12 power centers from the 4th through 6th centuries BC - as well as its Roman past. You can see all of these past eras on your visit to Volterra, starting from parts of the walls that go back to Etruscan times but built on through the Middle Ages.

What to eat in Volterra?

Volterra, like the whole territory of Valdelsa and Valdicecina, is the perfect place to taste rustic and genuine cuisine, based on local tradition. The Pecorino delle Balze Volterrane DOP is a cheese made exclusively from raw milk with vegetable rennet that is obtained from the flower of a thistle or artichoke and is something you must taste.

Is Volterra worth a day trip from Tuscany?

Despite its recent popularity among fans, it remains visited far less than nearby San Gimignano making it a great day trip when visiting Tuscany year round and in particular during the high tourist summer months. Here's our recommendations on the top sights to see in Volterra during a day (or two or three) spent exploring the town.

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Is Volterra Italy worth visiting?

Volterra Volterra is a charming medieval town and while not as impressive as the previous five, I think it well deserves a place in this list of the best towns of Tuscany.

What is Volterra known for?

Now noted primarily as an Etruscan and medieval art centre, Volterra has the remains of Etruscan walls enlarged in the 4th and 3rd centuries bc, two Etruscan-Roman gateways, and circular tombs from the 6th century bc with vaults of concentric rings supported by a central pillar.

How much time do you need in Volterra?

The city of Volterra is a town that sits on top of a hill not far from San Gimignano. It's recommended that you take at least two days to explore but if you're pressed for time, there are certain things you need to see before moving on to your next destination.

Which is better Volterra or San Gimignano?

San Gimignano is probably more visually impressive and compact, while in Volterra there's more to see, from Etruscan finds to Roman ruins. Volterra is the bigger of the two and feels more' authentic', lived in by locals, while San Gimignano feels like it caters more for tourists.

Where was twilight shot in Italy?

MontepulcianoIn the second book of Stephenie Meyers's Twilight series, Volterra is the setting for some of the film's most dramatic and important scenes. While Volterra, Italy is a real town in Tuscany, Italy, the Volterra scenes for the movie Twilight: New Moon were filmed in Montepulciano, Italy.

Where was Twilight filmed in Volterra Italy?

MontepulcianoMontepulciano is a town in Southern Tuscany, Italy. It served as a filming location for the Volterra scenes in the New Moon film.

What is the most beautiful part of Tuscany?

The 11 Most Beautiful Towns in TuscanyMONTEPULCIANO.SAN GIMIGNANO.VOLTERRA.LUCCA.MONTERIGGIONI.CORTONA.PITIGLIANO.MONTEFIORALLE.More items...•

Is Montepulciano worth visiting?

Montepulciano may not be as well known as the neighboring Tuscan cities of Florence and Siena, but it is definitely worth visiting. This small medieval town, perched high on a hilltop, is full of impressive Renaissance architecture, family-owned shops and restaurants, and some of Italy's best red wines.

Is San Gimignano worth visiting?

Is San Gimignano Worth Visiting? Yes, absolutely! After seeing the best things to do in San Gimignano, you will get an authentic look into the Tuscan countryside, outside of large cities like Florence and Siena.

Which is better Siena or Lucca?

Lucca is quieter, smaller easier to get around and has a more small town feel. It does have some great medieval art, as Ruskin noted. Siena is also more central and a good base for visiting the sights of central Tuscany, like Chianti or San Gim. You pays your money and you takes your choice.

Is Siena worth visiting?

Tuscany is one of the most popular regions to visit in all of Italy, and Siena is one of the best places to go in Tuscany. Known for its great wine, its stunning architecture, and its fantastic cuisine, Siena is definitely one of my favorite places in Italy.

Is Pisa worth visiting?

Yes, Pisa is worth visiting, even if you just discover the iconic masterpieces on the Piazza dei Miracoli. However, as you can see, Pisa has much more to offer travellers and the city deserves to be discovered. The locals are friendly, the Italian food is great and the city is full of history and things to do.

Why is Volterra called Volterra?

Origins of the name Volterra According to linguists Velathri derives from the ancient 'Velzna', a term also related to other place names such as Feltre, the old Volsinii (Orvieto), and Bologna (in the Etruscan language 'Felsina' or 'Felsnal').

What does Volterra mean in English?

Volterra (Italian pronunciation: [volˈtɛrra]; Latin: Volaterrae) is a walled mountaintop town in the Tuscany region of Italy. Its history dates from before the 8th century BC and it has substantial structures from the Etruscan, Roman, and Medieval periods.

What is Volterra alabaster?

TheAlabaster Volterra is an ancient material discovered over 6 million years ago, a marble-like calcium sulphate, which is formed in the tunnels and quarries under the open sky of one of the most beautiful cities of Tuscany.

Where were the Volturi scenes filmed?

The scenes with the Volturi were shot inside Palazzo del Comune, the Redi wine cellar and some palazzos in the historic centre. Finally, the most iconic scene of the saga, when Bella saves Edward's life, was filmed in piazza Grande and at the entrance to Palazzo del Comune.

Food, Wine & Nightlife

The Tuscany Countryside from Livorno Port. Lunch and wine in the farm included!

Top Attractions in Volterra

I also visited the bell tower, which overs breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings.

Shore Excursions

The Tuscany Countryside from Livorno Port. Lunch and wine in the farm included!

Ports of Call Tours

The Tuscany Countryside from Livorno Port. Lunch and wine in the farm included!

Where is Volterra located?

Volterra is an outstanding town in the province of Pisa located about thirty kilometres from San Gimignano and Colle di Val d’Elsa. Volterra experienced a period of extraordinary brilliance in Etruscan times when it was one of the twelve City States which constituted the Etruria. We think that between the 5th and the 4th centuries before Christ, Velhatri (the etruscan name of Volterra) had already 25.000 citizens! A huge number if you consider the historic period and the current population of Volterra (little more than 10.000 residents). In this period Volterra had its first defensive wall, broader (about 7 km) than that of medieval times. In the third century b.C. Roma took control over Volterra. As we will see, also this period was very fruitful from an architectonic point of view.

Where are the civic museums in Volterra?

The civic museums of Volterra are housed inside the palazzo Minucci-Solaini since the 1982 when the artworks coming from the Galleria Pittorica Comunale and from other institutions were joined. The quality and the reputation of the exposed artworks make the Museum a stage almost essential in visit to Volterra. Among the many masterpieces I want to mention the Taddeo di Bartolo ‘s il polyptych Madonna con Bambino in trono e Santi , the Rosso Fiorentino ‘s Deposizione and the Luca Signorelli ‘s Annunciazione.

What is the Volterra card?

It is a cumulative ticket that last 72 hours allowing the access to the Museo Etrusco Guarnacci, the Pinacoteca, the Ecomuseo dell’Alabastro, the Palazzo dei Priori, the Acropolis and the Roman Theater.

Where is the Museo etrusco Guarnacci?

Taking via Don Minzoni we quickly reach palazzo Desideri-Tangassi, where is the Museo etrusco Guarnacci. The Museum originated from works collected, and then donated to the city of Volterra, by the Abbot Guarnacci during the 18th century. Created in 1761, this is one of the oldest public museums in Europe. Its big archaeological collection is made by findings ranging from the Neolithic to the Roman period. It’s a huge amount of works from original collection has grown over time as a result of new discoveries and acquisitions.

What is the oldest town hall in Tuscany?

The palace, built between 1208 and 1254, is the oldest among the town halls in Tuscany. The facade is adorned by the coats of arms of the Florentines commissioners and has an high bell tower (rebuilt in 19th century), from which you can enjoy a great view. Despite being the home to some municipal offices, the building is partially open to the public. In particular it is possible to visit the sala del Consiglio and the sala della Giunta on the first floor and other rooms on the top floor in addition to the aforementioned Tower.

What is the town of Volterra?

The walled hilltop town of Volterra will enchant you. If you've been to Siena and to San Gimignano, you'll see this medieval town offers its own special charm and allure. The town still has traces of its Etruscan past - it was one of 12 power centers from the 4th through 6th centuries BC - as well as its Roman past. You can see all of these past eras on your visit to Volterra, starting from parts of the walls that go back to Etruscan times but built on through the Middle Ages.

What is Volterra treasures?

Volterra treasures an inestimable collection of alabaster sculptures and the display in the Ecomuseum is only a small part of this heritage. You'll enjoy exploring the recreated artisan's workshop, and admiring over 300 examples from Etruscan times on to contemporary sculptures.

How long is the Volterra card valid?

If you're in Volterra for a day or more, and are interested in visiting many of the sites recommended above, then the best deal is to get the Volterra Card which is valid for 3 days (vali d 72 hours) and includes access to the Guarnacci Etruscan Museum, the Pinacoteca (Painting Gallery), Alabaster Ecomuseum, Palazzo dei Priori, the Acropolis and Roman Theather (all recommended above).

What is the Pinacoteca?

The Pinacoteca or Art Gallery, housed in the Minucci-Solaini Palace, a splendid example of late 15th century architecture traditionally attributed to Antonio San Gallo the Elder should also be on your list. Along with the Civic Museum of Volterra, the Art Gallery preserves many incredible masterpieces of art, but the one that stands particularly out is the Deposition by Rosso Fiorentino.

When was Volterra AD 1398?

Volterra AD 1398 - on the 3rd and 4th Sundays of August, the citizens of Volterra roll back time to 600 years ago, celebrating in period costume and enjoying themselves in the fun of a medieval fair. Look for the stands that offer medieval dress so that you can join in!

Where to see alabaster?

If you're interested in learning more about alabaster, then a stop at the Alabastar Ecomuseum is a must. It is an intriguing exploration of everything related to the rock, from excavation, production and sculpting to commercialization. Volterra treasures an inestimable collection of alabaster sculptures and the display in the Ecomuseum is only a small part of this heritage. You'll enjoy exploring the recreated artisan's workshop, and admiring over 300 examples from Etruscan times on to contemporary sculptures.

Where is Volterra in Italy?

Volterra is an Italian commune in the Tuscan region, province of Pisa , and still proudly preserves traces of its Etruscan past! From the 4th century to the 6th century BC, the city was one of the 12 most powerful centers in Italy; from that time, we can see the remains of the ancient walls that were built until the beginning of the Middle Ages. Volterra became world famous for the Twilight Saga film, but what few know, and now the secret comes: the film was not shot here, but in Montepulciano. In spite of everything, Volterra can be visited from its famous neighbor, San Gimignano, which is another reason to include it in its Tuscan itinerary. Today we are going to stroll through this little jewel called Volterra. 2-hour guided tour of Volterra by Night

How long is the Volterra card valid?

If you are staying in Volterra for two or three days, consider purchasing the Volterra Card. It is valid for 03 days (72 hours) and allows entry to several sights. It costs 16 euros and saves you time, especially if you travel during the high season. For more information, click Click here!

Volterra Attractions

It's not difficult to find fun things to do in Volterra. Educate yourself on the local history and check out the best sights in this charming city. Sort out your itinerary now so you're raring to go once you arrive.

Free Things to Do in Volterra

Leave your purse in the hotel. It's a snap to have a blast in Volterra without paying a cent.

Popular places to visit in Volterra

You can learn about the history of Volterra when you stop by Palazzo dei Priori. Discover the beautiful countryside while you're in the area.

What are the best places to visit in Volterra?

10. Pinacoteca and Museo Civico (Art Gallery and Civic Museum) The Minucci-Solaini Palazzo, which houses the museum and gallery, is itself among the top places to see in Volterra. An outstanding example of Renaissance architecture of the late 15th century, the palace is attributed to Antonio San Gallo the Elder.

What is the center of Volterra?

Volterra. Volterra's historic center is still marked by medieval tower houses from the 12th and 13th centuries - look north of the cathedral for Casa-torre Buonparenti, Torre Martinoli, Casa Nannetti e Miranceli, and Torre Buonaguidi.

What to do on a day trip from Siena to San Gimignano?

On the Small-Group San Gimignano and Volterra Day Trip from Siena, you can combine two of Tuscany's most popular hill towns, with the added bonus of a visit to the lovely little hilltop village of Monteriggioni. The eight-hour trip includes a stroll along the ancient pilgrimage route, the Via Francigena, a visit to an alabaster workshop in Volterra, and a rustic Tuscan farmhouse lunch.

What is the name of the church in Volterra?

Church of San Francesco in Volterra. The 13 th -century church of San Francesco was built for Franciscan friars, and has some notable religious paintings, but what should put it on any visitor's list of things to do in Volterra is its Capella della Croce di Giorno (Chapel of the Holy Cross).

How tall are the walls of Volterra?

In some places, the walls rise as high as 11 meters.

What was Volterra known for?

Before the third century BC, when it became a Roman municipium, Volterra was a member of the Etruscan League of twelve cities, and it was already known for its alabaster, which was worked by master craftsmen and traded throughout the peninsula. Volterra.

Where is the Roman theater in Vallebuona?

North of the town walls, and accessed via Porta San Francesco, is the large Vallebuona archaeological area, where excavations since 1951 have revealed a Roman theater dating from the first century AD.

What is Volterra known for?

A beautiful and charming town located in the province of Pisa, Volterra is renowned for its Etruscan origins and has many sites in the area. Meander through the walled town with its medieval, Renaissance and Roman buildings and enjoy the timeless atmosphere that it ignites. There are plenty of opportunities to see the town from up high, and some from underground too! Use this guide and explore the best things to do in Volterra, Italy. Start planning your vacation now!

How to see the cliffs of Volterra?

To see the cliffs in their full view, walk to the track opposite rather than from above them , and if you want a place to watch the sunset, head here for a prime location to see it.

What is the Cathedral of Volterra?

The Cathedral of Volterra is centered within the heart of the Volterra community and is dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. Don’t be put off by the seemingly plain exterior of the building because once you enter the inside, the details, particularly in the ceilings, medieval fresco paintings and paintings on wood, won’t fail to impress.

Where is the Teatro Romano?

It’s located right in the middle of old Volterra, adjacent to the medieval city walls. Walk to the side of it and take in the amazing views of this Roman theater from above for quite an experience and a great opportunity for taking photos.

What are the museums in Volterra?

Volterra is rich in artistic heritage that can be admired while walking through the streets of the historic center and visiting the city's museums which include the Etruscan museum, the Pinacoteca, the Museum of Sacred Art, or the Eco-museum of Alabaster.

What is Volterra known for?

Volterra (in Etruscan Veláthri), was one of the main city-states of ancient Etruria and during the Middle Ages it was the seat of an important episcopal lordship. The village has been known for centuries for the manufacture of alabaster whose artifacts are some of the most important products of Italian craftsmanship. Volterra.

Where is Volterra located?

Volterra is a village built on a hill between the Era and Cecina valleys. With its double walls, both Etruscan and from the thirteenth-century, it's a medieval-looking city, where you can still enjoy the atmosphere of a historic village. Volterra (in Etruscan Veláthri), was one of the main city-states of ancient Etruria and during ...

Is the Abbey of Volterra worth visiting?

The abbey is worth a visit for the well-preserved cloister and refectory, but also , simply for the spectacular panorama it offers. You can't miss the small villages like Montemiccioli, a small castle built on the borderline between the territory of Volterra and that of San Gimignano or Saline di Volterra, which owes its name to the deposits ...