Volterra in Tuscani

Volterra is a medieval town in the hills of Tuscany. It is located in the province of Pisa and not far from Florence. Volterra is also called the “City of Alabaster”.

Volterra boasts a long history

The history of Volterra goes all the way back to the Bronze Age. There is evidence that this city has been continuously inhabited since the end of the 8^th century BC.

The Etruscans

The powerful Etruscans inhabiting the place changed central Italy by introducing irrigation to the previously unfarmed land and by building their settlements on hills thus easier defendable.

Volterra was one of the twelve cities of the Etruscan league before turning into a bishop’s residence in the 5^th century.

The Florentines

The Florentines than conquered the place albeit their rule had to deal with the occasional upraising of the unsatisfied population. When the Florentine Republic fell in 1530, it came under control of the Medici family.

My first impression of Volterra

The first impression I got of Volterra was its amazing setting overlooking the surrounding Tuscan valley.

No driving in town

There is no driving in the historically center partially because the majority of streets are simply too narrow for a car to pass.

However, there are a number of parking areas just outside of the city wall from where the town is easily reachable by foot.

Just wandering around

Passing through Porta San Francesco, I entered Volterra. I spent my time there mainly wandering around aimlessly enjoying the historical flair of the place.

Penitentiary

I was rather impressed by the prison building. It is still in use for the same purpose and heavily guarded including surveyance cameras all over the place.

Etruscan theatre and Public park

Close to the prison it is a park for the locals to enjoy some quality time.

The Etruscan Theatre and Cistern are just behind the park.

Etruscan Museum

I also stopped by the Etruscan Museum in search of information on this very powerful and influential people that, at one point, ruled a large junk of Italy.

Not impressed

Sorry to say, but I was really not impressed of the museum.

It displayed mainly sarcophagi which became rather repetitive after a while.

Sites to visit

There are obviously quite a number places to see – the Cathedral of Volterra, Palazzo dei Priori on the main square, the Roman Theatre close by Volterra, the Volterra City Museum and Art Gallery and more.

But, honestly speaking, I included Volterra in my road trip because I just wanted to get a feel for this amazing place.