Volterra is a city located in the Italian region of Tuscany, nestled in the hills between the cities of Florence and Siena. It is a place rich in history, culture and artistic beauty.
One of the main peculiarities of Volterra is its Etruscan history. The city has roots that date back to Etruscan times, and still today it is possible to visit numerous archaeological sites linked to this ancient civilization. For example, the Etruscan Acropolis and the Porta all’Arco are two unmissable places of interest for history lovers as well as the Roman theater.
Another distinctive feature of Volterra is its medieval old town, surrounded by ancient walls. The narrow streets, historic buildings and picturesque squares create a charming atmosphere, which will make you feel as if you have stepped back in time. The Piazza dei Priori is the heart of the city, with its medieval tower, the Palazzo dei Priori, which houses the town hall and the Civic Museum.
Volterra is also known for working alabaster, a precious stone that is extracted in its vicinity. There are numerous craft workshops where you can watch the craftsmen at work and buy beautiful alabaster items as souvenirs.
As for the best time to visit Volterra, it depends on your personal tastes. The city is charming at any time of year, but many visitors prefer to avoid the summer months, when temperatures can get very hot and there are more tourists. Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) are often considered the best times to visit Volterra, as the weather is milder and there are fewer visitors.
However, if you like the festive atmosphere, you might consider visiting Volterra during one of its special events. For example, Volterra AD 1398 is held in June, a historical reenactment that celebrates the medieval history of the city. During this period, the historic center comes alive with shows, stalls, costume parades and other activities related to the Middle Ages.
In summary, why do we recommend you to visit Volterra?
In summary, Volterra is a charming village that combines history, culture and craftsmanship. Regardless of the period chosen to visit it, you will be greeted by a unique atmosphere and an extraordinary historical and artistic heritage.
Image by Rudy and Peter Skitterians from Pixabay
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