Photo © Bernd Thaller
Photo © Bernd Thaller
Volterra is located in the east side of the province of Pisa, on the borderline of the province of Siena, and is situated on a hill 1770 feet above the sea level, between the valleys of Cecina and Dell'Era. Its origins date back to the ancient Etruscans, who used to call the city as Velathri or Felathri, while the actual name comes from Volaterrae, dating back to the Roman era. The Etruscan walls are still visible, well preserved and surround the city centre.
Furthermore, you can really feel a medieval atmosphere when walking through the narrow streets of the centre. Throughout the Middle Ages, the city was home to the bishop, then it fell into the hands of Florence (and the Medici family), and, afterwards, under the Grand Duchy of Tuscany.