The Etruscan arch at the southern edge of the old town dates to the third century BC. The three weathered basalt heads carved into the keystone and jambs are Etruscan, though their identity has been lost. The gate was integrated into the medieval walls and still serves as an entrance to the historic centre. Walk through it and you are walking through a structure older than the Roman Empire.
Porta all'Arco
Third-century BC Etruscan gate with carved stone heads
A story
The three dark stone heads carved into the arch are Etruscan — they represent gods whose names are now lost. The gate itself dates to the third century BC, making it one of the oldest surviving Etruscan structures in Tuscany. During the Second World War, residents dismantled part of the roadway stone by stone to prevent German forces from destroying the gate as they retreated.