The small town of Volterra, located in central Tuscany and about 50km from Florence, is one of the most beautiful walled towns in Tuscany. With a rich and varied past, dating back over 3000 years, the historically and culturally significant Volterra is well worth a visit. If you’re looking to stay in this charming, yet mysterious town, then we have your accommodation sorted. With a selection of villas with pools in Volterra, Tuscany, you’ll find the perfect place to stay.
Visiting Volterra truly means taking a step back in time. From being an important Etruscan centre several thousand years ago, to being inhabited by Romans, and later being under control of the powerful Medici family, this town has a rich historical tapestry. Signs from these periods of history still remain, and can be seen all over Volterra. The highest point of the town is home to an Etruscan acropolis, which gives you incredible panoramic views over the stunning countryside. Here, you can see the foundations of Etruscan temples, as well as several Etruscan tombs. Make sure you also pay a visit to the Roman theatre and Roman baths, which date back to the 4th century AD. While Volterra has maintained a medieval character, you can also clearly see a renaissance influence among the narrow streets and churches. The cathedral boasts a Romanesque façade, but its interior is truly Renaissance in style.
A part of Volterra’s amazing history can also be seen in artistic form. Volterra is world famous for its alabaster, and this precious stone can be found in large deposits all over the surrounding area. The tradition of working alabaster goes back to the Etruscans, who used it to make urns, tabernacles and vases, as well as spectacular art. Housed in a former convent, the Museum of Alabaster offers an incredible insight into these alabaster traditions, with over 300 art works on display.
And from ancient stone to modern literature: this city is also famous for its association with the popular Twilight saga, by Stephanie Meyer. In the second book ‘New Moon’, we pay a visit to Volterra, which is the home of the powerful Volturi family of vampires. You can see all the locations that are referenced in the book, and lots of Twlight fans flock here to visit famous spots such as the clocktower, the city walls and the Viti mansion- home to the Volturi. There are organised tours available, but picking up a special self-guided map and retracing Bella and Edward’s steps yourself is just as much fun.
We have a large choice of Tuscany villas with pool, and many villas with pools in Volterra itself, so you’ll have a perfect base from which to explore this beautiful, historical town. Just try your best to avoid any vampires that may be lurking in the shadows…