Volterra AD 1398, Volterra

The 14th edition of Volterra AD 1398 has two unforgettable settings: the town centre, with its imposing palaces and squares, and the Archaeological Park, over which the Medici Fortress reigns.

The high point of the programme is the “Festival Day of AD 1398”, on Sunday August 21st and 28th, from morning to nightfall. On this exceptional day a medieval town comes back to life with its performances, events, tradesmen, artisans, musicians, jugglers, populace and nobles. A unique occasion to experience, as if by magic, medieval times in one of the most beautiful cities in Tuscany.

The town centre comes to life with a never ending past, rich colourful performances and music, while in the archaeological park the countryside comes back to life. The village with its peasant farmers, shepherds, the monastery and monks, the courtyard animals and the military camps welcome the visitors who can enjoy performances with arms and falconry.

A special area will be dedicated to children with magical adventures, man-eating giants, fairies and battles.

Sunday 21 and 28 August

11am to 11,30 pm

Town Centre and E. Fiumi Archaeological Park

The Day of the 1398 A.D. festival

Merchants, artisans, musicians, jugglers, actors, artists, men of law, ladies and knights, monks and peasants, soldiers and falconers. Hundreds of walk-ons all around the severe towers, imposing palazzi and churches or amongst the houses of the village or the military tents in the shade of the Medici Fortress. A unique occasion to be experienced from morning to night, the magic atmosphere of Volterra in AD 1398.

Il Grosso Volterrano

The currency circulating during the Middle Ages was the denaro grosso, simply called “Grosso”.

The Grosso will be the only currency in circulation on Sunday 15th and 22nd during “the Day of the 1398 festival”.

Crafts, food and wine may only be purchased with this currency which will be available at “The old Exchange office”.

Excess money may be converted back into Euro at the Tourist Information until the 10/09/2011.

The value of the Grosso in Euro is:

One Grosso, copper coin, euro 1

Five Grossi, gold coin , euro 5

Admission euro 9

under 18 and over 60 euro 5

Children under 10 free of charge