Volterra, Etruscan Town Perched High on Top of A Hill

When also Velathri was forced to join the Italic Confederation (around the half of the 3rd century BC) it continued to maintain a certain degree of independence, until the outbreak of the war between Mario and Sulla, that ended up bringing Volterra to its knees. In the 5th century AD, the city became the seat of a diocese but the bishops rose to power only around the 9th - 10th century. The episcopal power reached its climax under Galgano Pannocchieschi but the despotism of the latter laid also the foundation for the anti-episcopal riot, that was soon leaded by the local lords and the emerging middle classes. In 1208, the bishops started to lose their power and the beautiful Palazzo dei Priori became the emblem and the seat of the free commune. Surrounded by Florence, Siena and Pisa in the midst of their territorial expansion, Volterra clearly found itself struggling to maintain its independence from its fierce neighbours, until it finally fell prey to the Florentine rule (1472)... Although independence was formally conceded, the city was finally subdued to Florence.

Volterra is the perfect Tuscany tour destination for families and couples, the city has preserved its medieval charm thanks to its relative geographical isolation; high upon its hill, almost entirely surrounded by its beautiful 13th century walls, Volterra can be easily reached from Florence in approximately 1 hour... all you need to do is to choose your favourite Florence car rent and leave!