Volterra is in western Tuscany, situated on a hilltop overlooking the valleys of Cecina and Era, 550 meters above sea level. It is a town of stone with narrow streets, looming towers and dignified palaces and fortifications. To the west of the town are vast saltpans where table salt and soda are produced - along with alabaster, the town’s most famous claim to fame. The medieval art of flag throwing and archery has been reinstated and is now an annual event.

Chalky alabaster is the distinctive feature of the culture and history of Volterra – it’s mined locally and there are many workshops in the town where craftsmen carve beautiful white statues and other souvenirs to sell in the shops. The revived skill of flag throwing is demonstrated annually on a national level in the town square of Piazza dei Priori where the participants can be seen wearing elegant fifteenth century costumes. It is a popular event with visitors coming from all over the country, and it’s held on the first Sunday in September.