Artisans have been handcrafting alabaster in this part of Italy for many hundreds of years. I was…read morevery happy to learn about Giuseppe Famiglietti's alabaster lab and gallery in Volterra, an Etruscan city known throughout the world for its alabaster quarries. Giuseppe's family has been producing alabaster craft for generations. Giuseppe's unique artwork is displayed and for sale in the gallery. Giuseppe's lovely wife makes jewelry with alabaster and you can even buy alabaster beads from her. The alabaster bracelets and necklaces that you see for sale in other shops around Volterra are likely made by her.

There was this outlet shoe store, recommended by our tour director, just 5 mins. walk from Villa…read moreSan Filippo. When I do a search, it brings me to BRAND of leather shoes, wallets, but this is not a brand, it's a name of the location where the outlet is. I went in hoping to find some very nice leather comfortable shoes or boots, purses, anything Made in Italy. I have just a few minutes to shop till they closes @ 7PM. I found 2, instantly, and should have bought more, if they have my size & colors don't matter! I go for comfort, and one-of-a-kind style. They are helpful, the shoes Made in Florence, and I wore my 1st one non-stop for days! I'm waiting for my 2nd one, for special events, and Christmas is just around the corner. They are both the same brand! After showing off my new purchases, the women @ my tour were jealous, because they didn't find any they like, but they didn't look hard enough. I heard, they walked back there, the following night and bought a pair or two. Except, they were complaining, they now have no room for stuff they purchased for relatives & friends! My advice: bring an empty luggage or have them shipped!

This 'theatre' is only used once a year ( 1 night, mid-late July) for a special concert by Andrea…read moreBocelli as the village of Lajatico is his home town. If you can get a ticket for this it is an amazing, magical experience.The stage, set, seating etc is all set up outside in this natural amphitheatre in the Tuscan hills and to hear such high quality singing and music from one of the world's greatest singers as the sun sets and the moon and stars come out is an unforgettable experience. The site is also worth visiting though when the concert is not taking place if you are around the Volterra area as it is a very beautiful spot, the rolling golden hills of Tuscany laid out in an unspoilt 360degree panorama. Aim for early evening to catch the shadows and setting sun. The site is easy to find once in Lajatico as its well signposted.