Piazza dei Priori
Volterra's Piazza dei Priori, a medieval gem, captivates with its historic architecture and offers stunning Tuscan views from its clock tower.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Golden hour light
Piazza dei Priori
Best Time
Golden hour light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Volterra's Piazza dei Priori, a medieval gem, captivates with its historic architecture and offers stunning Tuscan views from its clock tower.
"Piazza dei Priori is a special place, a beautiful medieval square that feels like stepping back in time."
📸 Twilight Pilgrimage
Channel your inner Twilight fan and visit key filming spots like Piazza dei Priori.
⬆️ Climb the Clock Tower
The views from Palazzo dei Priori's tower are spectacular, especially on a clear day.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Piazza dei Priori
Town Center
The heart of Volterra, this medieval square is a stunning ensemble of historic buildings, including the Palazzo dei Priori.
Palazzo dei Priori Clock Tower
Piazza dei Priori
Ascend for unparalleled views of Volterra and the Tuscan countryside. A truly memorable experience.
Etruscan History
Various sites around Volterra
Discover ancient Etruscan gates and artifacts, offering a glimpse into Volterra's deep historical roots.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Twilight Vibe
Clock Tower Views & Volterra Card
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Twilight Pilgrimage
Channel your inner Twilight fan and visit key filming spots like Piazza dei Priori. +1
⬆️ Climb the Clock Tower
The views from Palazzo dei Priori's tower are spectacular, especially on a clear day.
🎟️ Consider the Volterra Card
If you plan to visit multiple attractions, this card offers great value.
🚶♀️ Wander the Medieval Streets
Beyond the main square, Volterra's charming alleys hold many hidden gems.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Twilight Pilgrimage
Channel your inner Twilight fan and visit key filming spots like Piazza dei Priori. +1
⬆️ Climb the Clock Tower
The views from Palazzo dei Priori's tower are spectacular, especially on a clear day.
🎟️ Consider the Volterra Card
If you plan to visit multiple attractions, this card offers great value.
🚶♀️ Wander the Medieval Streets
Beyond the main square, Volterra's charming alleys hold many hidden gems.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Volterra for its stunning medieval architecture, particularly the captivating Piazza dei Priori, and the breathtaking views from the Palazzo dei Priori's Clock Tower. The town's connection to the Twilight Saga also draws significant interest, adding a unique layer to the experience. Some find the town can be quite hilly, requiring comfortable footwear for exploration.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Piazza dei Priori is the central square of Volterra, so it's easily accessible on foot once you're in the town center. If arriving by car, there are parking areas outside the historic center, such as near the train station, with a short walk into town.
Volterra is best reached by car or bus. From Florence or Siena, you can take a bus, which is a scenic journey through Tuscany. Driving offers more flexibility to explore the region. +1
Volterra is a walkable town. Exploring on foot allows you to fully appreciate its medieval charm and discover hidden corners. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Piazza dei Priori itself is a public square and free to enter. However, attractions within or around the piazza, like the Clock Tower, may require tickets.
Entry to the Clock Tower of Palazzo dei Priori typically costs around 8 euros. A Volterra Card, which includes access to other sites, is also available for a higher price.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the official Volterra tourism website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, the Volterra Card offers access to multiple historical sites, including potentially the Clock Tower and other museums, providing a cost-effective option for visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire piazza offers beautiful medieval architecture. For iconic shots, frame the Palazzo dei Priori with its tower, or capture the atmosphere during golden hour.
Late afternoon and twilight offer magical lighting for photography, enhancing the medieval ambiance. The 'Twilight' filming connection also makes these times popular.
Photography policies can vary for specific areas within the Palazzo dei Priori and its tower. It's best to check for any restrictions upon entry.
🎫 🏛️ History & Culture
Piazza dei Priori is one of the oldest civic squares in Tuscany, dating back to the 13th century. It served as the administrative heart of Volterra and is surrounded by significant historical buildings.
Volterra was the primary filming location for the Volturi's city in the Twilight movies 'New Moon' and 'Eclipse,' drawing many fans to experience the town's atmosphere. +2
The Palazzo dei Priori is Volterra's town hall, built in the 13th century. It's considered an architectural inspiration for Florence's Palazzo Vecchio.
Yes, Volterra has a rich Etruscan heritage, including ancient gates like the Porta all'Arco, one of the oldest Etruscan entrances in Italy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For fans of the Twilight Saga, Volterra provides a real-world connection to their favorite stories, making the visit extra special. Exploring the Etruscan gates like Porta all'Arco can also spark curiosity about ancient history. Consider packing snacks and water, as exploring the hilly streets can be tiring for little ones.
🎬 Twilight Saga Fans
Many fans enjoy visiting during the late afternoon or twilight hours to capture the magical lighting that enhances the town's mystique.
While the town has embraced its connection to the saga, remember to also appreciate Volterra's rich Etruscan and medieval history, which provides the authentic backdrop for these cinematic moments. 🚶♀️ History & Architecture Enthusiasts
+1 Don't miss the chance to climb the Clock Tower for a unique perspective on the town's layout and surrounding landscape. Beyond the piazza, delve into Volterra's Etruscan roots by visiting the Porta all'Arco and exploring the local museums.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Volterra's Twilight Connection
Fans often recreate iconic moments, like Bella's dash through the piazza, or simply soak in the atmosphere that feels frozen in time. The town has embraced this connection, with local shops sometimes offering Twilight-themed souvenirs. It’s a unique aspect of Volterra’s tourism, blending its rich Etruscan and medieval history with a modern pop culture phenomenon.
While the cinematic magic is a draw, remember that Volterra is a living, breathing historical town. The Piazza dei Priori remains the civic and social heart, where locals gather and daily life unfolds. Experiencing this authentic side alongside the Twilight-inspired exploration offers a richer, more layered visit.
+1Exploring the Palazzo dei Priori and its Tower
Inside, you can explore the halls that once housed the city's government, offering a tangible connection to Volterra's past. A highlight for many visitors is the opportunity to climb the Clock Tower attached to the Palazzo dei Priori. This ascent rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of Volterra's terracotta rooftops, the surrounding Tuscan hills, and on clear days, you can see for miles.
For those planning to visit multiple historical sites in Volterra, purchasing the Volterra Card is often recommended. This card typically includes entry to the Clock Tower and other key attractions, offering a cost-effective way to delve deeper into the town's history and enjoy its best viewpoints.
Remember to check current pricing and inclusions before your visit. Volterra's Etruscan Heritage
The Etruscan influence is woven into the fabric of Volterra, visible not just in its monumental gates but also in the layout of some of its older streets and the materials used in construction. Understanding this deep history adds another layer of appreciation when exploring the town, transforming a simple walk into a journey through millennia.
While the Piazza dei Priori represents the medieval heart, the Etruscan sites remind visitors of Volterra's even more ancient origins. Integrating visits to these historical markers provides a comprehensive understanding of the town's enduring legacy and its strategic importance throughout different eras.
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