Volterra Cathedral
A Romanesque masterpiece rebuilt after an earthquake, housing stunning art and an exceptional audio guide.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Volterra Cathedral
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Romanesque masterpiece rebuilt after an earthquake, housing stunning art and an exceptional audio guide.
"The audio guide is outstanding - you must download it to your smart phone after scanning a QR code."
🎧 Download the Audio Guide
The 7 EUR ticket includes an outstanding audio guide. Download it via QR code for a rich historical experience. :iphone:
⏳ Allow 34 Minutes
The audio guide offers about 34 minutes of insightful commentary on the cathedral's art and history. :clock:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Deposition of Christ Sculptures
Interior
Five striking polychrome wood sculptures depicting Christ's deposition from the cross.
Gilded Coffered Ceiling
Interior
An elegant and richly decorated gilded coffered ceiling that captivates visitors.
Romanesque Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Admire the blend of Romanesque style with later Gothic influences, a testament to its reconstruction.
Marble Facade
Exterior
The cathedral's exterior is adorned with a beautiful marble facade, adding to its grandeur.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ticketed Entry & Audio Guide
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎧 Download the Audio Guide
The 7 EUR ticket includes an outstanding audio guide. Download it via QR code for a rich historical experience. :iphone:
⏳ Allow 34 Minutes
The audio guide offers about 34 minutes of insightful commentary on the cathedral's art and history. :clock:
🎟️ Ticket for Entry
Be prepared to pay an entrance fee; it's not a free-entry church like many in Italy. :ticket:
🚶♀️ Explore Volterra First
Combine your cathedral visit with exploring Volterra's charming streets and Roman theater.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎧 Download the Audio Guide
The 7 EUR ticket includes an outstanding audio guide. Download it via QR code for a rich historical experience. :iphone:
⏳ Allow 34 Minutes
The audio guide offers about 34 minutes of insightful commentary on the cathedral's art and history. :clock:
🎟️ Ticket for Entry
Be prepared to pay an entrance fee; it's not a free-entry church like many in Italy. :ticket:
🚶♀️ Explore Volterra First
Combine your cathedral visit with exploring Volterra's charming streets and Roman theater.
💰 Palazzo Viti Discount
Your cathedral ticket offers a 2 EUR discount for the nearby Palazzo Viti. :euro:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Volterra Cathedral beautiful and historically significant, particularly praising its art and the excellent audio guide. However, the mandatory entrance fee, unusual for Italian churches, is a point of contention for some. Despite this, most agree the experience is worthwhile for the art and historical context provided.
"Hidden in a quiet corner of Volterra, and rebuilt after the earthquake of 1117 that destroyed most of the town.
Amongst the various artistic masterpieces kept inside the Cathedral, the five polychrome sculptures carved out of wood portraying the “Deposition of Christ from the Cross” certainly stand out.
Worth a visit."
Jo G
"My wife and I enjoyed visiting the cathedral. Current cost is 7EUR/person and includes a great audio guide with approximately 15 stations. Each station on the audio guide provides about two minutes of information - total audio guide is 34 minutes long. The audio guide is outstanding - you must download it to your smart phone after scanning a QR code given to you after purchasing a ticket. The audio guide is as good, if not better, than several walking tour guides we have taken for substantially more cost. The ticket to cathedral offers each person a 2EUR discount to visit Palazzo Viti (5EUR instead of 7EUR). The cathedral is not a component of the Volterra Card. Again, great audio guide that brings to life the many great paintings and sculptures within the cathedral."
Joseph Hale
"Church is nice outside…..but you have to pay to enter a church….and this is not acceptable in Italy"
manucsn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Volterra Cathedral is located in Piazza San Giovanni in the heart of Volterra, Tuscany. If you're driving, there are parking lots near the Roman theater ruins, a short walk uphill to the city center. Public transport options to Volterra are available from nearby cities like Florence and Pisa, usually involving a bus connection.
Yes, Volterra is accessible by bus from major Tuscan cities. The journey might involve a change, but it's a scenic way to reach the hilltop town. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Volterra is best explored on foot. Its steep, winding cobblestone streets are part of its charm. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, unlike many churches in Italy, Volterra Cathedral requires a ticket for entry. The current price is 7 EUR per person.
The 7 EUR ticket includes access to the cathedral and an excellent, comprehensive audio guide that provides about 34 minutes of historical and artistic information.
Your ticket to the Volterra Cathedral offers a 2 EUR discount on admission to Palazzo Viti, making it a great value to explore more of Volterra's heritage.
Currently, there are no free entry times mentioned for Volterra Cathedral. The entrance fee is standard for all visitors.
No, the Volterra Cathedral is not included as part of the Volterra Card. It requires a separate ticket purchase.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Opening hours can vary, and it's advisable to check locally or online before your visit. Generally, it's open during daylight hours, but specific times should be confirmed.
Many visitors highlight the five polychrome wood sculptures of the 'Deposition of Christ from the Cross' as particularly moving. The gilded coffered ceiling and various paintings are also significant.
The audio guide is typically available in major languages, including English. It's a crucial tool for appreciating the cathedral's treasures.
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check for signage or ask staff. Often, non-flash photography is permitted for personal use.
The main areas of the cathedral are generally accessible, but Volterra itself is a hilltop town with cobblestone streets, which can be challenging. Inquire about specific accessibility within the cathedral if needed.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior, especially the marble facade and the surrounding Piazza San Giovanni, offers great photo opportunities. Inside, the gilded ceiling and artistic details are stunning, though check photography rules.
Yes, the interior is rich with art and architectural details. The gilded ceiling and the 'Deposition' sculptures are particularly photogenic. Remember to use natural light or check if flash is allowed.
Late afternoon can offer beautiful light on the marble facade, creating a warm glow. Early mornings can provide a quieter setting for interior shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Volterra itself offers more child-friendly activities, such as exploring the Roman theater ruins
and enjoying the open spaces in the town's piazzas. Ensure comfortable footwear for everyone, as Volterra's streets are steep and cobbled. 💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize savings, consider visiting Volterra as a day trip from a larger city like Florence or Pisa, utilizing public transport.
Pack your own snacks and water, as dining options within the historic center can be pricier. 🏛️ Art & History Enthusiasts
Don't miss the opportunity to use your ticket for a discount at Palazzo Viti, which offers further insights into Volterran noble life and art.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
History and Reconstruction
Over the centuries, it has undergone further modifications and additions, incorporating elements of Gothic architecture and housing numerous artistic treasures. This history of destruction and rebirth is a key part of the cathedral's narrative. The resilience of Volterra and its religious heart is evident in its enduring presence. The Cathedral of Volterra stands as a testament to the city's ability to rebuild and preserve its heritage, making it a significant landmark in Tuscany.
The cathedral's artistic collection is a major draw, featuring works from various periods. The Deposition of Christ from the Cross sculptures are a standout, offering a powerful visual experience.
These elements, combined with the Romanesque architecture, create a rich tapestry of history and art for visitors to explore.The Unique Ticketing System
Crucially, the ticket price includes an outstanding audio guide. This guide is highly praised by visitors for its depth and clarity, offering around 34 minutes of detailed information about the cathedral's art, history, and architecture. Many reviewers consider it to be as good as, if not better than, paid walking tours.
Furthermore, the ticket provides a small incentive to explore other local heritage sites, offering a 2 EUR discount towards admission to the nearby Palazzo Viti.
Social
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