Village of Volterra

Volterra was our favorite town to visit. It is more rural than any others, surrounded by agriculture and farmlands. It is way up on top of a hill and takes quite a bit of stair climbing. Alabaster is one of their main products and little shops and artisans that deal in the making of alabaster ornaments are everywhere. Very, very quaint, quiet, and unspoiled. Ancient. It started out sunny, but a small thunderstorm came through just before noon. We ducked into a small trattoria in an alley way and enjoyed a lovely and romantic lunch while it drizzled and thundered outside. The food was awesome. A wonderful day spent here.

Steps leading up to the village on a rainy afternoon.

Beauty in imperfection...

Volterra horizon from the upper story of the Etruscan museum in the village


Candles lit in the side chapel of the church of St. Francis. In the reflection it looks like they are coming from the Body.

Statue of St. Francis.

Interior of the Church of St. Francis.

The Church of St. Francis, built around 1270 and connected to a Franciscan monastery built around 1220

Old and new.

Inside the main duomo (cathedral)

Inside the main duomo.

Main duomo.

A lantern hanger inside the palace.

The amphitheatre that excavated at the edge of the town.

Yesterday we saw the little town of Volterra, the most perfectly preserved midieval town we have seen yet. Less tourists, absolutely stunning architecture and history. Toured another Etruscan museum and some cathedrals.
The best for me was going into a small church on the far side of town, away from all the tourist traffic. No one around. This church was established in 1270 by the Franciscan friars, attached to a Franciscan monastery that was built in 1200 to 1220 while St. Francis was still alive. He was there and visited. Bob and I went inside and viewed the fading frescoes, the sunlight coming through the windows and falling softly on the altar and huge paintings. On one side was a tiny room with statues of Mary, the body of Jesus, and Mary Magdalene at the crucifixion. I lit two candles...one for Mom and one for Cynthia, and prayed for a few minutes. The church was completely empty and silent... A roll of thunder tumbled slowly through the sky, and it began to rain.
It was magical. I wish you all were there with me.
love you all, see you next week. Cant call or email after this... happy birthday Ben!!!! I love you sooooo much!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

love,
mom