The Volterra crags, located on the south-western side of the Volterra hill, between the Era and Cecina valleys, constitute a geological phenomenon of considerable interest. These cliffs represent the result of a long erosion process, where an upper layer of sand, more resistant to the action of water than the underlying clays, led to the formation of these characteristic overhangs. In simple terms, the collapse of the sand layer at the base caused it to collapse in "slices," thus creating the typical rock crags.
These formations rise like imposing cliffs that cut through the crumbly soil, giving the impression of hurting the Volterra hills. Over the centuries, the advance of the cliffs has led to the loss of parts of the ancient Etruscan walls, churches, houses and even the largest necropolis of the ancient city. Despite this, the beauty of this landscape of grandiose strength, one of a kind, is an authentic gift of nature.