Volterra, a haven of Etruscan, Roman, Medieval and Rennaissance art, dominates the Cecina Valley, 550 metres above sea level, affording a spectacular view as far as the sea.
The city still retains traces of its majestic past which gradually unfurls as you wander through the narrow streets and explore the Etruscan Museum, The Art Gallery and Museum of Sacred Art. And yet Volterra's charm not only lies in its historical patrimony
but in the undefiled surrounding countryside, a slow traditional way of life and its age-old tradition of alabaster carving.This elusive stronghold requires careful and patient attention for it takes time to absorb its timeless atmosphere, treasured secrets,
unique ambience and culture. |
One of the most unspoilt areas in the region, close to other important art centres and the coast, this is an ideal choice for a holiday in Tuscany. |
| San Gimignano rises on a hill (334m high) dominating the Elsa Valley with its towers. Once the seat of a small Etruscan village of the Hellenistic period (200-300 BC) it began its life as a town in the 10th century taking its name from the Holy Bishop of Modena, St. Gimignano, who is said to have saved the village from the barbarian hordes. |
The town increased in wealth and developed greatly during the Middle Ages thanks to the "Via Francigena" the trading and pilgrim's route that crossed it. Such prosperity lead to the flourishing of works of art to adorn the churches and monasteries. In 1199 it became a free municipality and fought against the Bishops of Volterra and the surrounding municipalities. The construction of the towers dates back to the 11th and 13th centuries. The architecture of the city was influenced by Pisa, Siena and Florence. There are 14th century paintings of the Sienese School to be seen and 15th century paintings of the Florentine School. |
