Foodies often choose to vacation in Tuscany as there is a wide breadth of different culinary experiences to enjoy in the region. There are lots of local delicacies to be tried, famous gelato shops, bakeries, and restaurants to visit, specific food festivals to attend, traditional markets selling the freshest produce, and much more besides to experience in Tuscany. In fact, one could readily (and happily) spend a whole holiday in the region just going on a foodie road trip around Tuscany to try it all! However, if you were considering a villa with pool in Volterra and you are looking for a highly unique, inexpensive, and fascinating dining experience, then we have just the thing for you: a visit to the restaurant in the Fortezza Medicea.
Upon approach to the building, which rises sternly and prominently along the skyline of Volterra, it seems like yet another historic fortress to be visited in Tuscany. However, this Renaissance-era fortress is actually a high-security prison for criminals serving no less than seven years and, therefore, cannot be explored, doesn't feature tour guides wandering with groups of tourists, doesn't have a gift shop, and isn't adorned all over with information panels. It does, however, have a very special restaurant.
Having now garnered international press from all corners of the globe, the restaurant in the Fortezza Medicea was first established in 2006 as a program that allowed inmates to work as staff – cooking and serving the food and even playing musical instruments – as part of a rehabilitation scheme and to make money for charity and it has since become a popular attraction in town. Between September and June each year, there is a calendar of dinners and events that can be attended at the restaurant. Those wishing to try it out must plan and book well in advance as there are limited places. You should also keep in mind that you will need to pass a background check, go through several checkpoints, you cannot bring a cell phone or bag, and that all cutlery is made from plastic. Dinner costs about 25 euros, includes a glass of wine, and is made up of fairly simple but delicious dishes. If you are interested in trying it out for yourself, then check out the details on their website.
So, if you're a foodie who has found a villa in Volterra and who is planning a trip to this pretty town in Tuscany, consider trying out this incredibly unique dining experience!
Having now garnered international press from all corners of the globe, the restaurant in the Fortezza Medicea was first established in 2006 as a program that allowed inmates to work as staff – cooking and serving the food and even playing musical instruments – as part of a rehabilitation scheme and to make money for charity and it has since become a popular attraction in town. Between September and June each year, there is a calendar of dinners and events that can be attended at the restaurant. Those wishing to try it out must plan and book well in advance as there are limited places. You should also keep in mind that you will need to pass a background check, go through several checkpoints, you cannot bring a cell phone or bag, and that all cutlery is made from plastic. Dinner costs about 25 euros, includes a glass of wine, and is made up of fairly simple but delicious dishes. If you are interested in trying it out for yourself, then check out the details on their website.
So, if you're a foodie who has found a villa in Volterra and who is planning a trip to this pretty town in Tuscany, consider trying out this incredibly unique dining experience!
