Verona, city of history and charm
Verona still preserves the traces of its glorious Roman past. The structure of the city follows the original one of the first century BC, and many of today's streets are still those traced in Roman times. The influence of antiquity is visible not only in monumental remains such as the Arena, the Roman Theater and the bridges, but also in the architecture of later periods. Just look at the monumental gates of Sanmicheli to capture the inspiration from the arches of the Arena.
Verona also has a Venetian soul, which is reflected in its perforated balconies, elegant windows and narrow streets reminiscent of the Serenissima.
What to see in a day in Verona
If you arrive from Verona Sud, from the train station or from the airport, in a few minutes you can reach Piazza Bra, the heart of the city. This irregular square contains centuries of history: along the Liston, the buildings with arcades host elegant cafes and restaurants. On the opposite side stands the neoclassical Palazzo Barbieri, which is now the town hall.
Next to the medieval walls is the Gran Guardia, now used for exhibitions and events. And finally, the symbol of Verona: the Arena. A visit to the Arena is highly recommended to admire the majesty of its interior and breathe the atmosphere of the shows that still take place here today.
Also in Piazza Bra is the Lapidary Museum, with an extraordinary collection of inscriptions and ancient artifacts from the Etruscan, Greek and Roman periods.
Towards the medieval heart of Verona
Walking along Via Mazzini, the shopping street, you reach Piazza Erbe, the historic market square, surrounded by frescoed buildings such as the Mazzanti Houses, the sumptuous Palazzo Maffei, the Gardello Tower, the Town Hall and the Domus Mercatorum.
A few steps away are the charming Cortile Mercato Vecchio, the elegant Piazza dei Signori and the imposing Arche Scaligere, monumental tombs of the Della Scala family. For a panoramic view of the city, you can climb the 83-meter-high Torre dei Lamberti.
Nearby, along Via Cappello, is Juliet's House, a beautiful example of medieval architecture. Continuing on, you will find the remains of the Roman Gate of the Lions and, facing the Adige River, one of the most beautiful churches in Verona: San Fermo Maggiore, with its extraordinary wooden ceiling and frescoes of great artistic value.
Walking along the Adige river, you arrive in the area of the Roman Theater and the Ponte Pietra. Not far away stands the Cathedral complex, which can also be reached through picturesque quiet streets, flanked by frescoed houses and finely decorated balconies.
Information
For a one-day guided tour of Verona, write to me at info@guideverona.net or call 3398875599.
Audio Tour of Verona: Discover the route on VoiceMap
