Volterra

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Also, see Day 4 notes and photos from September 18, 2007.

Volterra (pop 11,000) was established by the Etruscans as Velathri, an active trading centre, which was absorbed into the Roman confederation in around 260BC when its name was changed to Volterra. In mid 1300's it was taken under the control of Florence during the continuing battles between Florence and Siena for dominance in the region. The baptistery shows characteristics of both Florentine (pro-Pope Guelf) and Siennese (pro empire Ghibelline)architecture.
Since Etruscan times (Etruscans were well established in this area as early as 800BC)the town has been a centre of alabaster extraction and workmanship. Though the quarries were relatively inactive in the middle ages, they were revived in the renaissance period when the stone became popular again. All manner of alabaster items are available in the shops..
One of Italy's finest Etruscan museums is here in Volterra, Museo Ettrusco Guarnacci.
Just outside the walls are the remains of a Roman theatre and there is an active archeological site near the Roman fort, now a prison.
Rich