Very few places in the world are as enamoured with their history as is Tuscany. While this has slowed down progress in many ways, it has also allowed us to keep alive many traditions that date back to the antiquity. One of the most interesting is the alabaster carving industry that has survived in Volterra since the VIII century BC. It may not be as vibrant or creative as it was in the past, but there are still many master scupltors and artisans that work this deceptive and very versatile stone. Of the 52 varieties still present in the quarries around the town, artisans produce all sorts of sculpture, from the small souvenirs to the big and extremely expensive sculpture that end up in some of the most exclusive collections around the world. Using techniques that sometimes date back to antiquity, this very special industry is to this day one of the most characteristic of Tuscany. Let us know what you think about this kind of episode by joining the conversation on our social media accounts:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/larno.it
Twitter: @arno_it / @WhatsupTuscany

LINKS ALLE FONTI
https://www.itinerarieluoghi.it/artigiani-dellalabastro-a-volterra-quattro-indirizzi-da-non-perdere/
https://www.itstuscany.com/it/le-origini-della-lavorazione-dellalabastro/
https://www.alialabastro.it/alabastro-estrazione-e-lavorazione.htm
https://www.paesionline.it/italia/prodotti-tipici-e-artigianato-volterra/botteghe-di-alabastro
https://www.stilemargherita.it/artieri-dellalabastro-centanni-di-tradizione-a-volterra/
https://www.quinewsvolterra.it/volterra-apre-al-pubblico-una-antica-bottega-di-alabastro.htm

BACKGROUND MUSIC
Title: Children of the Son
Author: Pipe Choir Records
License: Creative Commons Attribution
Links: https://soundcloud.com/pipe-choir-2/pc-one-children-of-the-son-creative-commons-instrumental