Verona, inspired by romance, can easily compete with Paris for the title of the most romantic city in the world. This is the place where, according to Shakespeare, the saddest love story unfolded – the tragic fate of Romeo and Juliet.
However, if you look beyond Shakespeare and take a broader view of the city, it becomes clear why Verona was included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Known as “Little Rome,” Verona amazes with its architectural splendor and is one of the most picturesque cities in Italy. It experienced its golden age in the 13th and 14th centuries, leaving behind an impressive cultural and artistic legacy.
Entertainment and Attractions
Verona, a city of lovers, where love not only between people but also for the city itself, its cozy streets and majestic landmarks, inspires an atmosphere of sweet idleness. The pride of the ancient city’s architecture is the Arena di Verona, a centuries-old monument built by the Romans over two millennia ago. It once hosted gladiatorial battles, and today hosts exciting theatrical performances.
However, you don’t have to limit yourself to Shakespeare: a visit to Verona is incomplete without a visit to Juliet’s House. This beautiful 13th-century mansion, once the Cappello clan, the inspiration for the Capulet family, is well-known. It’s worth pausing on its balcony: the whispers of lovers might still echo in the silence. Or perhaps you should wish for happiness by leaving a note on the wall of the house or touching the bronze statue of Juliet. Afterwards, it’s worth heading to where Juliet supposedly found her eternal resting place: some Shakespeare fans believe her tomb is located in a church on Via del Pontieri. Verona’s most picturesque square is Piazza delle Erbe, home to the majestic Gothic Casa della Merchantina, the Baroque Palazzo Maffei, the Gardello Clock Tower, and Casa Mazzanti with its mythological frescoes. The Lamberti Tower offers stunning views of the Alps, and the Berlin Pavilion was once the site of coronations. The heart of the square is the Fountain of the Madonna di Verona, installed in 1368.
Another remarkable architectural landmark is the Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore. Its impressive façade of golden tuff and pink marble is a real eye-catcher, and inside you’ll find the crypt containing the body of Saint Zeno in a transparent sarcophagus. A great place for a stroll is the Giardini Giusti, created in the 16th century, where you can enjoy a stroll among statues and cypress trees, then explore the medieval labyrinth.
