Volterra, located in the heart of Tuscany, with its towers ripping through the sky and its stones laden with stories, is a must-see destination for any tourist who wants to immerse himself in the true essence of the region. It is an invitation to discover, to wander, to live. This ancient village is waiting to tell you timeless stories, to seduce you with its unforgettable charm and to give you indelible moments.
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Volterra, a village nestled in the rolling hills of Tuscany, is a gem of culture and history that has its roots in Etruscan times. The city, also known as Veláthri in Etruscan, offers visitors an extraordinary testimony to the civilizations that have succeeded one another over the millennia: from the Etruscans, through the Romans, to the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.
Journey within the walls: must-see attractions in Volterra
The Guarnacci Etruscan Museum is one of the most significant places to appreciate Volterra’s Etruscan past. It is famous for housing unique collections such as “The Shadow of the Evening” and other priceless archaeological artifacts. By visiting this museum, you can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the ancient people of Volterra.
Not far from the historic center, however, are the fascinating ruins of the Roman Theater, a striking example of the architectural ingenuity of the imperial era. The nearby Acropolis, on the other hand, reveals the remains of Volterra’s Gilded Age, representing one of the city’s most revealing archaeological areas.
The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the Baptistery stand for the flowing expression of the Christian faith through the ages. With their structures mixing Romanesque and Renaissance elements, these buildings are a must for any tourist interested in the history of sacred art.
Medieval in design, the Palazzo dei Priori is one of Volterra’s most emblematic historic buildings. Today, as then, it stands out in the main square as the focal point of Volterran life.
The Alabaster Ecomuseum is the symbol of Volterran craftsmanship, bearing witness to millennia of working with this translucent and precious material. To visit it is to connect with a vital aspect of local culture and economy.
Modern evocations: Twilight and the legend of vampires
Volterra has gained modern notoriety thanks to the Twilight saga. Although scenes from the films were shot in Montepulciano, the connection created has increased tourism and curiosity, making Volterra an even more fascinating destination for fans of the genre.
Culinary tradition and events
In the fall, Volterra becomes the stage for Volterragusto, a festival celebrating local food and wine products such as white truffles, olive oil and wines from the region. An unmissable occasion for lovers of good food and local traditions.
To plan your visit to Volterra, remember to download the official map from the website and, if you plan a longer stay, consider purchasing the Volterra Card that will give you access to many places of interest at a great price.
Don’t wait, plan your adventure in wonderful Volterra, and prepare to be enthralled by a town that has managed to traverse the ages while keeping its mysterious splendor intact.
Village of Volterra
Municipality of Volterra
Province of Pisa
Tuscany Region
Population: 9.749 volterrani
altitude center: 531 m a.s.l.
the Municipality is part of:
Città del tartufo
Acknowledgments
Orange Flag – Italian Touring Club
Protected Natural Areas:
Berignone Forest Natural Reserve
Provinciale Montenero Natural Reserve
Municipality
Piazza dei Priori 1 – Phone +39 0588 86050
BY CAR
- From the North: Take the A1 highway, exit at Firenze Certosa, take the highway to Siena and exit at Colle Val D’Elsa-Poggibonsi, continue on the SS 68 until Volterra.
- From the South: Take the A1 motorway towards Florence, exit at Siena, take the SS 326 towards Siena, near Siena take the expressway towards Florence, exit at Colle Val D’Elsa-Staggia, continue on the SS 68 to Volterra .
- From La Spezia: Take the A12 motorway to Livorno, exit at Pisa, take the expressway to Florence and exit at Ponsacco-Pontedera, continue on the SS 439 to Volterra.
ON THE TRAIN
- Saline di Volterra station
BY PLANE
- Pisa airport
- Florence airport
- Weekly Market: every tuesday, in the clock square and every saturday, in Priors’ square.
- From June to October – VolterrArte.
What to see in Volterra
Discover what to see in Volterra among monuments, scenic views, museums, churches and symbolic places of the village. A useful selection to plan your visit and explore the area.
Where to stay in Volterra
If you are looking for where to stay in Volterra, you can choose from hotels, B&Bs, farm stays and holiday homes in the village and nearby, for a slower stay among landscapes, culture and authentic hospitality.
News and stories about “Volterra”
Insights and stories from the area, to keep discovering.
Itinerary outside of Pisa: a weekend between Casale Marittimo and Castelnuovo Val di Cecina
The Way of Etruria: from Volterra to Chiusi, 12 exciting stages in the footsteps of the greatest pre-Roman civilisation
The witches of Volterra and other mysteries
4 villages not to be missed for designer craftsmanship
Continue the journey
Volterra is only one of the treasures of the area. Use the interactive map to discover what to visit nearby, how far the other villages are and which experiences you can enjoy along the route.
Explore the area
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