Memorable Experiences & Highlights in Verona

Tucked beside the small church of Santa Maria Antica, this monumental funerary complex is a breathtaking masterpiece of Gothic sculpture. Protected by an intricate wrought iron fence decorated with the ladder motif of the ruling family, the elaborate stone tombs reach skyward like delicate spires. The monuments celebrate the absolute power and military triumphs of the Scaliger lords, featuring intricate carvings, saintly figures, and commanding equestrian statues. The tomb of Cangrande I, positioned above the church door, is particularly striking, depicting the lord with a broad, enigmatic smile. It stands as one of the most significant examples of Gothic art in Italy.

Often referred to by locals as 'Piazza Dante' due to the pensive statue of the poet at its centre, this square offers a quieter, more aristocratic atmosphere than its bustling neighbour. It is enclosed by a series of magnificent, interconnected palaces that once served as the administrative and political hub of the ruling Scaliger family. The architecture is a harmonious blend of severe medieval brickwork and delicate Renaissance loggias. The elegant arches connecting the buildings create a sense of an enclosed, open air grand hall. It is an ideal spot to admire the refined civic architecture that defined the city's golden age.

Serving as the principal entrance to the ancient Roman city along the vital Via Postumia, this imposing 1st century gateway remains wonderfully intact. Carved entirely from local white limestone, the structure features two main arches topped by two tiers of elegant, decorative arched windows. It is a testament to the fact that the Romans designed their military defences to be not just formidable, but architecturally beautiful. Today, it spans a bustling, elegant shopping street, creating a striking juxtaposition between ancient grandeur and modern commerce. Examining the base reveals the deep, worn grooves left by countless Roman chariot wheels.

Extending forcefully from the main keep of the Castelvecchio, this robust, fortified bridge was constructed in the 14th century as a secure escape route for the ruling lords. Built with a combination of deep red brick and white marble, its three arches span the turbulent river below. The bridge is heavily fortified with high walls and characteristic swallowtail battlements, giving it a severe, martial appearance. Walking through its sheltered, brick lined corridors feels like traversing a medieval fortress rather than a simple river crossing. Like much of the city, it was destroyed in World War II and brilliantly rebuilt.

Built over the ancient Roman forum, this elongated square remains the undisputed social heart of the city. It is framed by a spectacular array of architecture, including medieval towers, baroque palaces, and the stunning frescoed facades of the Mazzanti Houses. During the day, the centre is filled with the white umbrellas of the market stalls, while the perimeter cafes buzz with activity. At its heart stands the 'Madonna Verona' fountain, a Roman statue repurposed in the 14th century to symbolise the city. It is a place of incredible visual richness, where every era of the city's history is visible simultaneously.

As the largest church in the city, this magnificent Dominican basilica is a towering masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture. The striking brick exterior features a beautifully carved, though unfinished, entrance portal. Inside, the sheer scale of the soaring vaulted ceilings and the intricate floral motifs painted along the ribs are breathtaking. The interior houses incredible artistic treasures, including Pisanello's famous, delicate fresco of 'St George and the Princess'. Do not miss the two unusual holy water fonts supported by marble statues of crouched figures, known locally as the 'hunchbacks' of the basilica.

This graceful, multi arched bridge is the oldest remaining crossing over the Adige River, dating back to the Roman era. Its current appearance is a striking visual history lesson, blending the original massive white Roman blocks with red medieval brick repairs. Destroyed by retreating German troops in 1945, it was painstakingly reconstructed using original stones recovered from the riverbed. Walking across provides a wonderful sensory experience of the rushing water below and beautiful framed views of the lush, green hills ahead. It perfectly links the ancient Roman theatre to the vibrant, medieval core of the city.

Perched high on the strategic hill that hosted the original prehistoric settlement, this site offers unparalleled views over the entire cityscape. The current structure is a massive, austere 19th century military barracks built by the Austrians, which replaced a fortress destroyed by Napoleon. While the building itself is currently undergoing restoration, the wide terrace at its base is the true attraction. Lined with cypress trees, it provides a sweeping, panoramic perspective of the river's dramatic loop embracing the historic centre. It is the absolute best location to watch the sunset turn the city's rooftops to gold.