Volterra: A Majestic Fortress That’s Rich in History
Surrounded by historic walls and sitting atop a mountain, Volterra, Italy is a town and commune in Tuscany, which was the Bronze Age settlement of the Proto-Villanovan culture and later the Etruscan civilization. It is the birthplace of Pope Saint Linus, the second Bishop of Rome. It is most accessible via Pisa International Airport (PSA) some 41 miles away and Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR) 54 miles away.
Best Time to Visit
Volterra, Italy offers nice weather most of the year, especially between late months of April to early November. Tourism is at its peak between months from January to March, but usually slow down the most in November. In late August, the town holds the Volterra Festival AD 1398, during which performances by tradesmen, artisans, musicians, and jugglers area abound. The Monteriggioni Festival is held every July, with music concerts, historical reenactments and loads of medieval cuisines to enjoy.
What to Do & Area Attractions
When in Volterra, Italy, don't miss out on visiting the Roman Theatre, an archeological site just outside Volterra's medieval walls. For historic architecture, head over to the Cathedral of Volterra that was rebuilt in 1117 and the Palazzo dei Priori, which the oldest civic building in Tuscany built in 1208. Check out the Etruscan Museum, one of the earliest public museums to open in Europe and founded in 1761. Enjoy 4-star amenities at Park Hotel le Fonti, set on a hillside overlooking the Cecina Valley. It offers rooms with old-world accents, suites with lounge areas, and terraces with fantastic valley views. The 4-star Hotel La Locanda is a restored convent offering quaint accommodations and easy access to the Etruscan Museum.