Porta dell’Arco – between history and mystery

History and description

Founded between the 4th and 3rd centuries BC as part of an Etruscan city wall, the gate underwent several modifications over time. The arch and the protomes were added during the Roman period, while the medieval era brought new walls and the current gateway. Surviving an attempted destruction during World War II, the gate is built of tuff and stone, with a structure known as a “rectangular chamber.” On it are three sculpted heads, whose meaning remains uncertain: scholars debate whether they represent the Etruscan triad or a warning to potential invaders.

Curiosities

Volterra was used as a filming location for the second movie of the Twilight saga, New Moon. For this reason, the Porta dell’Arco has become a popular destination for fans, who often see the gate and its walls as an entrance to mysterious and shadowy places.

Access

As part of a public road, the gate is freely accessible at any time of day. It is also a popular photo spot marking the entrance to the ancient city.

How to reach it

Located in the heart of a historic district, the Porta dell’Arco can be reached by car (with nearby parking available), but it is best approached on foot, enjoying a particularly scenic walk through the streets of Volterra.

An exemplary monument of intact Etruscan art, the Porta dell’Arco is a site steeped in history and mystery, essential for fully experiencing the cultural richness of Volterra.

Photo credits: Sailko (Wikipedia) - Licensed by CC 4.0