Volterra
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Because Marcampo is located outside of Volterra, we spent quite a bit of time in this Etruscan hill town. David's wife, Charlotte, mentioned that this was her favorite town in Tuscany, and it's easy to see why. Though ancient historical elements are everywhere, we got a taste of what it's like to live here in the modern age by shopping at the grocery store, visiting neighborhood restaurants and shops, and talking to locals. As you walk around the massive walls that surround this town, you are surrounded with stunning views of the Tuscan region below. We took a guided walking tour (lead by an American woman who now calls Volterra her home) and learned about the incredible history that dates back to the 8th century BC.
 Etruscan GatesThis is one of several arches to the city that still remain from centuries ago. |  Roman AmphitheaterThis amphitheater was built in the 1st century AD, but was excavated in the 1950s after the site was used as a garbage dump in the Middle Ages. |  Above the Amphitheater |
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 Volterra |  Volterra |  Volterra |
 Views from Volterra |  Views from Volterra |  Views from VolterraOn a clear day, you can see the sea in the distance. |
Alabaster
An important part of Volterra's history is the mining of alabaster. Having been produced here for centuries, local shops are filled with a variety of carvings - everything from large sculptures to smaller home decor items and jewelry. We were fortunate enough to visit a local alabaster workshop to see how these carvings are created. It was amazing to see how the men chiseled and shaped simple blocks of alabaster into intricate pieces of art. I purchased a beautiful and one-of-a-kind bowl from this workshop and it is my most cherished souvenir of the entire trip.
 Sculpting Alabaster |  Alabaster DemonstrationHe started with a small block of alabaster.... |  Alabaster Demonstration...and created a beautiful bowl. |
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 Alabaster BowlThe bowl that I purchased from the workshop is proudly displayed in my home. |