Volterra

"Volterra boasts a rich Etruscan history, evidenced by its well-preserved walls, gates, and artifacts. The Guarnacci Etruscan Museum in Volterra houses one of the most extensive collections of Etruscan artifacts in Italy. The town is famous for its exquisite alabaster craftsmanship. Visitors can explore numerous workshops and galleries where artisans create beautiful sculptures and decorative items from this translucent mineral. Volterra's historic center is characterized by its medieval architecture, including the imposing Palazzo dei Priori, the Duomo (cathedral), and the Medicean Fortress. Volterra hosts various cultural events throughout the year, such as the Volterra Teatro festival, which showcases theater and performing arts. The town gained literary fame through works such as Stephenie Meyer's "Twilight" series, which featured Volterra as a setting in the final book, attracting fans of the series to visit and explore its charm."

"Authentic, walled hill town just far enough off the beaten path, with a long Etruscan heritage that makes for unusually interesting sightseeing for such a small town."

"An ancient hilltop town famous for its well-preserved Etruscan walls, Roman theater ruins, and medieval architecture, as well as its alabaster craftsmanship."