A few days are not enough to discover all the hidden beauties found in Volterra and its surroundings, but with a good guide and some useful travel tips, even a short tour will make you fall in love with this city.
Volterra is a gem located in the province of Pisa, not far from San Gimignano and Colle di Val d’Elsa. Its origins are Etruscan and it reached the peak of its splendor during Middle Ages. Known for being the location of some "Twilight" scenes, as it's the city of origin of the so-called "Volturi" vampires, Volterra is not as famous as major towns of arts such as Siena or San Gimignano, but it absolutely deserves to be visited in occasion of a special tour in Tuscany.
But which are the best things to see in Volterra? Check out the most beautiful places to visit and fall in love with the charm of this town!
1) The Etruscan walls and the access doors
The ancient defensive walls surrounding the city present six access doors, including Porta dell’Arco, the oldest one. As well as being a magnificent structure to discover and shoot in some photographs, it offers some splendid panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
2) San Galgano Abbey
Some places seem enchanted by a timeless magic and San Galgano Abbey is certainly one of these. This magnificent Cathedral with no ceiling is located in the middle of a splendid Tuscan landscape and is connected to some fabulous legends, like the story of the sword in the stone. Today, San Galgano is a wonderful place to visit with family and friends or in occasion of the special events organized here, like classical music concerts.
3) The Roman Theatre
Inside the archaeological area of Vallebuona, there is a stunning I century BC theatre, considered as one of the most beautiful and best conserved. Its mystical and unique atmosphere will make you feel some incredible emotions.
4) Piazza dei Priori
This square is a small corner of paradise. Its ancient palaces are the best-known in Volterra and include Palazzo Pretorio and Porcellino Tower. Entirely built using stone, the square presents a typical Medieval aspect and you will feel like traveling back in time!
5) The Dome and the Baptistery
In Piazza Duomo there are two charming buildings that you absolutely need to see: the so-called "Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta" and "Battistero di San Giovanni". These two architectural masterpieces were built in the late Middle Ages using precious materials such as Carrara marble. Inside, they also present some beautiful works of art dating back to 16th-18th century.
6) Museo Etrusco Guarnacci
This museum is one of the most interesting in Tuscany and conserves some inestimable findings dating back to Etruscan Hellenistic and Archaic periods. Among its masterpieces, the museum exhibits "The Shadow of the Night" bronze statue and the well-known urn portraying a couple of lovers.
7) Palazzo dei Priori
Dating back to 1200, the magnificent Palazzo dei Priori is located in Piazza dei Priori and presents various decorations on its façade, including the coat of arms of the main city families. Also known as Palazzo Comunale, it is one of Volterra's main buildings and the oldest City Hall in Tuscany.
8) Teatro del Silenzio
We are now in Lajatico, also known for being Andrea Bocelli's town of origin. The famous Teatro del Silenzio is a charming open-air space for concerts surrounded by a splendid natural landscape. This magical location is not far from Volterra and offers memorable experiences to all its visitors, who always get amazed by the beauty of its environment.
9) Piazzetta San Michele
In this central square, you will breathe a Medieval ambiance. Domniated by the small San Michele church dating back to 10th century, the Piazzetta presents some charming and century-old "case-torri".
10) San Gimignano
Do you really want to miss the "Medieval Manhattan"? San Gimignano is located a few kilometres far from Volterra and is surely a mandatory stop of your Tuscan tour. Its magnificent towers, the charming city streets and the splendid panoramas are famous worldwide and make it one of Italy's best tourist destinations.
What are you waiting for? Book now one of our stunning holiday accommodations in Volterra for your next stay in Tuscany!
© Alice Pilastri
