Hits The SpotAs it was a beautiful and sunny day, we opted to have lunch at an outdoor pizzeria, located in the middle of the street. This restaurant came highly recommended for the calzones from our local guide, Annie.
AnticipationBefore taking a trip, most travelers plan to purchase the coveted souvenir from that region. In Volterra, the souvenir to collect is alabaster or Etruscan era gold. Imagine our excitement to witness an eight inch cylinder block of alabaster turned into a translucent vase. Watching the artist at work was surpassed only by a selection of an alabaster purchase of our own.
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Volterra...Historic, Hilltop, HospitableThe architecture of the buildings, the arches, the art displayed in the shops, and the stone paths give Volterra a romantic feeling. Touring the city of Volterra reveals a fascinating Etruscan history. Although the Romans try to claim the invention of the arch, the Etruscans actually used the keystone arch before Roman times. In fact, the Volterran arch dates back to the fourth century BC; still remaining is one of the six gated arches. This arch is famous from World War II in that the Volterrans saved it from Nazi demolition. We also saw the Roman ruins of an amphitheater and baths, which had been buried under trash and dirt until dug out in the 1950's. We toured an Etruscan museum, where artifacts have been accumulated, and history is brought to life.
HistoricHilltop
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Adept & AstuteAnnie, our local tour guide for Volterra, was engaging in her recount of the history of Volterra. She brought to life the history of the Etruscans, the Roman occupation and their influence, the Medici sponsored church, as well as life as a true Volterran.
The CharmTypical of a small town, our tour guide Annie is married to a local sommelier, who gave an evening wine tasting within an authentic wine cellar. From his presentation, we learned a great tasting wine does not have to be an expensive wine. In addition, we also learned to smell and decipher the scents evoked by the waft of the wine. All of this was done from the coolness of an ancient basement wine cellar.
IntermissionWhen in Italy as a tourist, a lot of work is put into paying attention, keeping up, and being ready. Blessed are the moments when you get to experience some relaxation with the Italians. You can count on your guide to give you the fun and relaxation you are looking for. La Vena di Vino was a suggestion that became a repeated favorite venue while in Volterra. It is as fun as it looks; Bruno makes everyone feel at home.
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