By Paola Peruzzo
Shakespeare wrote a comedy called The Two Gentlemen of Verona sometime in the 16th century. And of course, his legendary lovers Romeo and Juliet lived in this charming old city. What’s Verona like today? Let’s find out:
‘The city of Verona is one of the most interesting places to visit in northern Italy, at the foot of Monti Lessini on the River Adige. It was founded by Romans and flourished during the following centuries, especially in the Medieval and Renaissance periods.
The sites which testify to the Roman origins of the town are the Roman Theatre, the Archeological Museum and, most of all, the Roman Arena, built in the 1st century and famous for a prestigious opera festival and a top setting for other theatrical performances.
Piazza del Erbe represents in particular the real heart of Verona
. It is characterised by a crowded market during the day and by the “aperitivo” hour—a pre-dinner drink, meant to “open” the palate and give you a chance to socialise and relax in the evening and on weekends.
Piazza dei Signori is smaller than the former but it is important as well because it has many palaces of great architectural and historical importance.
Its historic monuments show the importance of this city, which was a political and administrative centre in ancient times, such as the Palazzo del Capitanio, the Loggia del Consiglio and the Palazzo del Comune.
In the middle of the Piazza del Signori, you’ll find a monument of Dante and in recent years Roman mosaics and other relics were discovered there.
Another breathtaking feature of Verona is the Giardini Giusti, a beautiful garden
. You’ll love its renaissance-style layout, with fountains and mythological statues. You should go to this place because it’s very unique and relaxing!
Probably the most visited place in Verona is Juliet’s House, of course.
The legendary lovers’ famed balcony in the city centre attracts thousands of visitors every year. You can stop in the courtyard and see the statue, leave a love note and just give your own Juliet a little hug and kiss as the lovers would have done!
Apart from the city centre, all the lands of the province of Verona disclose hidden treasures and unmissable attractions.
North-west of Verona is Lake Garda, the biggest lake in Italy and a very popular holiday destination.
It offers you an opportunity to take in some wonderful scenery. Its particular shade of sky-blue in the day and blazing colours in the evening make it a stunning sight.
In order to fully appreciate the lake’s beauty, leave your car and take a trip on ferries, choosing itineraries which include almost all the ports on the Veronese shoreline where you can take spectacular snapshots!’
5 Verona Secrets Nobody Told You About
- Real-Life Juliet: Shakespeare’s Juliet was inspired by a real Veronese woman named Giulietta Cappelletti, making her story even more poignant.
- Ancient Arena: Verona’s Arena, older than the Colosseum, hosts opera performances today, offering a unique glimpse into ancient Roman entertainment.
- Hidden Frescoes: Church of San Zeno Maggiore boasts 12th-century frescoes, depicting biblical scenes, hidden treasures often missed by tourists.
- Scaliger Tombs: The elaborate Gothic Scaliger Tombs near Piazza dei Signori showcase medieval artistry, a testament to Verona’s historical power.
- Verona’s Underground: Beneath the city lies an ancient network of tunnels and cellars, offering guided tours and revealing Verona’s hidden depths.
Exploring a city’s lesser-known attractions and stories can often provide a more intimate and authentic experience. Enjoy your visit to Verona!
Check out our other posts: The Lovely Lake Garda, Italy
