City Orientation Walk

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1 - Page 1 - City Orientation Walk Verona is the embodiment of a true romance on the Italian soil immortalized by William Shakespeare in "Romeo and Juliet". Today it is famous primarily for the 14th-century dwelling of the imaginary Juliet with a tiny balcony upon which she supposedly once stood. Still, the list of notable sights awaiting visitors to Verona doesn't end there and includes, among other attractions, a massive 1st-century Roman amphitheater, called Verona Arena, hosting concerts and large-scale opera shows all year round. To see these and other pieces of local heritage, follow this orientation walk and enjoy your time in the city. Guide Location: Italy» Verona # of Attractions: 19 Tour Duration: 3 hour(s) Travel Distance: 5.3 km Please note: This walk is also featured in the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" downloadable on itunes App Store and Google Play. The app provides turn-by-turn GPS navigation to guide you from one tour sight to the next, so you will never be lost. The apps offer additional walking tours in Verona. Check them out! GPSmyCity offers self-guided walking tours in over 1,000 city around the world. Please visit for more walking tour offers. List of attractions included in this self-guided walking tour: A) Piazza delle Erbe B) Torre dei Lamberti C) Piazza dei Signori D) Scaliger Tombs E) Casa de Giulietta F) Mazzini street G) Arena di Verona H) Palazzo della Gran Guardia I) Castelvecchio Castle J) Arco dei Gavi K) Palazzo Canossa L) Porta Borsari M) Colonna di San Marco N) Palazzo Forti O) Sant'Anastasia P) Verona's Cathedral Q) Ponte Pietra R) Teatro Romano - Page 1 -

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8 - Page 8 - A) Piazza delle Erbe (must see) The Piazza delle Erbe, or the Square of Herbs, is located between the Via Mazzini and the Corso Porta Borsari. It served as the town forum during the Roman Empire. Today, it is a meeting place, marketplace, and home of the city s administration. For centuries, the gathering space has served as the heart of the community. One of the most beautiful features of the Piazza is the Madonna Verona, a fourteenth century Roman sculpture that dates back to 380 AD. In addition, many of the buildings, such as the Cassa Mazzanati, are decorated with beautiful frescoes. Herbs, clothes, refreshments, and souvenir items are sold in the square. Some of the other buildings in the piazza include the Tower Lamberti, the tallest tower in Verona and the Palazzo Commune, the municipal square. Other buildings include the Domus Mercatorum, home to the Chamber of Commerce and the Palazzo Mafei, a Baroque building that is decorated with statues of Roman gods. Those wishing for a quick bite to eat should try two restaurants located on the square, the Maffei and the Caffe delle Erbe. Other restaurants near the gathering place include the Nuovo Marconi, the Antico Caffe Dante, the Le Vecete, the Ristorante Arche, the Ristorante Greppia, the Bottega del Vino, and the Trattoria alla Colonna. The produce and flower market are open Monday through Saturday from 8 am to 7 pm. Address: Piazza delle Erbe, Verona, Italy Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and Dan Kamminga. Sight description based on Wikipedia. B) Torre dei Lamberti (must see) The Lamberti Tower was built in the medieval era and it has 84 meters high. The Tower has two bells. The smallest, called Marangona, was used to report fires and times of the day, while the largest, known as Rengo, gather for the council and call to arms for citizens. The name derives from Arengo Rengo, the place where, during the Middle Ages, the assemblies were held, while results from Marangona, which in dialect means Veronese carpenter. Address: Piazza delle Erbe, Verona, Italy Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and Gdbalista. Sight description based on Wikipedia. - Page 8 -

9 - Page 9 - C) Piazza dei Signori (must see) A popular spot with the locals, Piazza dei Signori was once the former center of power for the city of Verona. In fact, the plaza is surrounded by many historical and government buildings. The piazza is named after a statue of Italian poet Dante Alighieri that is located in the square. All of the buildings in the court display beautiful design. The Loggia del Consiglio features double columned windows and statues of Archangel Gabriel and the Virgin of the Annunciation. It also adorned with statues of Gaius Valerius Catullus, Pliny the Elder, Aemilius Macer, Marcus Vitruvius Pollio, Cornelius Nepos, Palazzo del Podestà, and other famous people who were born in Verona. Currently, it is the provincial seat of Verona. The Palazzo del Governo was the former seat of power for the Scaliger family. Although most of the original design of the building has been lost, there are a few frescoes in the courtyard that one can enjoy. The Palazzo dei Tribunali features two cannons in the palace courtyard and remnants of a mosaic floor. The Casa della Pièta displays a seated woman with a flag, the symbol of the city of Verona in ancient times. Three other buildings, the Palazzo del Comune, the Palazzo del Capitanio, and the Loggia del Consiglio are joined with elegant arches. For those who wish to have quick access to the square, the Continental, the Carlton, the Maison Matilda, the Locanda San Tomaso, the 19 Borgo Cavour, and the Maison Maggy are located less than a mile from the piazza. The square is open is open 24 hours a day Sunday through Saturday. Address: Piazza dei Signori, Verona 37121, Italy Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and Michael Lucan. Sight description based on Wikipedia. D) Scaliger Tombs (must see) The Scaliger Tombs, located in the historical center of Verona, is a monumental funerary complex in the Gothic style of the Scaliger family. Intended to contain tombs of some distinguished representatives of the family, including the biggest Lord of Verona, they are located next to the church of Santa Maria Antica. The French historian Georges Duby in his medieval Europe has defined the Tombs as one of the most distinguished and significant monuments of Gothic architecture. - Page 9 -

10 - Page 10 - Address: Via delle Arche Scaligere, 1 Verona 37121, Italy Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and Pentti Helenius. Sight description based on Wikipedia. E) Casa de Giulietta (must see) Casa di Giulietta, or the house of Juliette, is a thirteenth century structure that is situated on the remains of a Roman insula building on the Via Capello. It is located near the well-known Juliette s Tomb. Although many dispute whether or not Romeo and Juliette actually existed, the house remains a popular sightseer location that thousands of tourists visit each year. In fact, the house was formerly owned by the dell Capello family. Many guests write notes on the wall of the courtyard and the doors of the courtyard. From the balcony, one can even imagine ill-fated lovers talking to each other. The dwelling contains a museum that displays frescoes, paintings, and artwork from the sixteenth and seventeenth century. One treat to not miss is the bronze statute of Juliette. It is rumored that good luck will come to those who rub the right breast of the bronze sculpture. Entrance into the courtyard is free, but entry into the house is not. If you want to avoid crowds, the best time to visit is in the morning or afternoon. Operation hours: Monday 1.30 pm pm; Tuesday - Sunday 8.30 am 7.30 pm. Address: Via Cappello, 23, Verona 37121, Italy Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and Guilhem Dulous. Sight description based on Wikipedia. F) Mazzini street Via Mazzini combines the two most important squares, Piazza Bra and Piazza Erbe. Via Mazzini is the shopping heart of Verona and has everything you could want. All of the major designer stores are here, but plenty for other budgets. Also, it does not take long to walk around and is a lot less hectic than Paris and Milan. Address: Via Giuseppe Mazzini, Verona VR, Italy - Page 10 -

11 - Page 11 - Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and Cezar Suceveanu G) Arena di Verona (must see) Located on Piazza Bra is the Arena di Verona. This Roman amphitheater can seat up to 22,000 people and was built in 30 AD. It is home to the Verona Opera season each summer. The arena is known for its superb acoustics. Over 500,000 people visit each year. In ancient times, people came from far and wide to see the many performances, jousts, and trials. In modern times, great artists, such as Maria Callas, Tito Gobbi, Renata Tebaldi, Simple Minds, Duran Duran, Dire Straits, Rod Stewart and Sting, have performed at the arena. The original building was constructed of pink and white limestone and could seat 30,000 people. An earthquake in 1117 destroyed much of the building s outer ring. Today, seating is limited to 22,000 for safety reasons. Although a visit to the arena is worth the wait, those, who wish to experience a stress-free experience, should definitely prepare. Parking is available, but it is best to take a cab in order to avoid competition for parking spaces. In addition, one should eat before the show since opera performances are not brief. And finally, remember to dress appropriately for an outdoor performance venue. Opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday : 8.30 a.m p.m. (the ticket office closes at 6:30 p.m.) Monday: 1.30 p.m p.m. (the ticket office closes at 6:30 p.m.) Address: Piazza Bra 28, Verona 37121, Italy Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and chensiyuan. Sight description based on Wikipedia. H) Palazzo della Gran Guardia The Palazzo della Gran Guardia is a grand palace that hosts conferences and art exhibitions. It is the former headquarters and registered offices of the city guard. The building was constructed in 1610 and was completed in The building, which features majestic arches, was designed by Domenico Curtoni. Cutroni s work shows the influence of fellow designer - Page 11 -

12 - Page 12 - Michele Sanmicheli. It is located next to the Portoni della Bra on the Piazza Bra, the largest city square in Verona. Recent exhibitions include the works of Mantega, Mantua, and Padua. The Piazza Bar has many popular cafes, restaurants, and shops that visitors can enjoy. The Verona Arena, an amphitheater that can seat up 22,000 people, is a short distance away. After viewing the stunning palace, one should also pass through the Via Mazzini to watch the Veronese perform the passeggiata, a ritual leisurely walk through one of Verona s most elegant shopping avenues. Whether you are attending a wine tasting event, business seminar, or an exhibition on eighteenth century paintings, the Palazzo della Gran Guardia has something for everyone and will not disappoint. Hotels within walking distance include the Le Camp Spa and Resort, the Verdi, the Europa, the Diamantino, and the Majestic Toscanelli. Address: Palazzo della Gran Guardia, Verona, Italy Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and Wikipedius. Sight description based on Wikipedia. I) Castelvecchio Castle (must see) The Castelvecchio Caslte is one of the most important museums of the city of Verona. The castle is powerful and compact in its size with very little decoration - one square compound built in red bricks, one of the most prominent examples of Gothic architecture of the age, with imposing M-shaped merlons running along the castle and bridge walls. It has seven towers, a superelevated keep (maschio) with four main buildings inside. The castle is surrounded by a ditch, now dry, which was once filled with waters from the nearby Adige. Castelvecchio is now home to the Castelvecchio Museum and the local officer's club which can be accessed through the left door on Corso Cavour. The museum is distributed in about thirty rooms and in related areas: sculpture, painting, Italian and foreign, ancient weapons, cermiche, jewelery, miniatures and the ancient bells towns. Address: Corso Castelvecchio 2, Verona, Italy Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and Eggbread. Sight description based on Wikipedia. - Page 12 -

13 - Page 13 - J) Arco dei Gavi The Arco dei Gavi is a beautiful white limestone triumphal arch located in the center of pizzata del Castelvecchio. It was commissioned by the noble Roman Gavi family. Triumphal arcs were used by the Romans to remember important events, to celebrate the construction of roads or bridges, or to honor the death of an important person. During the Middle Ages the archway was an entrance when the city was surrounded by walls. The original architect was Lucio Vitruvio Cerdone. The structure was constructed during the first half of the first century CE and marks the portion of Via Postumia that branches off to Verona. The arch was demolished by the French due to structural problems in In 1932, it was rebuilt and moved from the Torre degli Orologi del Castelvecchio to its current location. The structure is a very popular spot for tourists and graffiti artists. Even with the addition of spray paint, the beauty of the arch can be fully appreciated. Recommended restaurants and attractions near the arch include the Antico Caffe Dante, the Officina dei Sapori, the Osteria Il Bertoldo, the Tosca Cafe Verona, the Al Pompiere, the Villa InCanto Opera Lirica, the Castelvecchio, the Chiesa di San Lorenzo, the Monumento a Aleardo Aleardi, the Ponte Scaligero, and the Museo Storico Naturale. Address: Corso Cavour, 43, 37121, Verona, Italy Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and Manfred Heyde. Sight description based on Wikipedia. K) Palazzo Canossa The Palazzo Canossa is a stone palace that was designed by Michele Sanmicheli in Although construction began in the sixteenth century, the building was not completed until the seventeenth century. It is located between the Porta Borsari and Castello Scaligero and is a very popular tourist destination. The structure design reflects a Mannerist style. It is one of four buildings that designer built in the city. Like many structures in the city, the building suffered some damage during World War II. Although frescoes by artist Gian Battista Tiepolo were lost during the bombing of Verona, many other elements remain. - Page 13 -

14 - Page 14 - Visitors will enjoy viewing the doorway that is decorated with marble columns, a portico, framed arched windows, and a gallery that is festooned with mythological creatures. Alexander I of Russia, Napoleon Bonaparte, and Francis I of Austria are just a few of the famous visitors who have graced the palace halls. The palace is located near many interesting sites. Other attractions near the Palazzo Canossa that you can enjoy include the Arco dei Gavi, the Palazzo Scannagatti, the Basilica SS. Apostoli, the S. Lorenzo, the Museo Civico di Castelvecchio, the Byblos Art Gallery, the Palazzo Bevilacqua, and the Ponte Scaligero. Address: Corso Cavour, 44, Verona, Italy Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and Lo Scaligero. Sight description based on Wikipedia. L) Porta Borsari (must see) Verona is one of the best preserved cities in Europe. At every corner, one can enjoy its art, history, and culture without entering an exhibition hall. One of the most stunning elements of the metropolis are its many gates that the Romans built and used to protect its citizens and to conduct business. The Porta Bosari is an ancient Roman gate that was built in the first century AD. It was formerly called the Porta Lovia and the Porta San Zeno before receiving its current name. The gate served as a passageway for the Via Postumia. The original building was brick and contained an inner court. It was rebuilt in 265 and given a limestone facade. The upper part of the gate features 12 arched windows. The Corso Porta Bosari shopping center leads up to the gate. Other nearby attractions you can enjoy after visiting the gate include the Porta dei Bòrsari, the Galleria Officina d'arte, the Church of Sant'Eufemia, the Foro romano in Piazza Erbe, the Monumento alle vittime del 1915, the La colonna di San Marco, the La fontana di Madonna Verona, the Museo d'arte, the Astra, the Torre dei Lamberti, the Fondazione Museo Miniscalchi - Page 14 -

15 - Page 15 - Erizzo, and the Case dei Mazzanti. Address: Corso Porta Borsari, 59, Verona, Italy Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and MM. Sight description based on Wikipedia. M) Colonna di San Marco Colonna di San Marco, which was erected in 1523, was sculpted in white marble. There is a lion at the top that is not the original one. It was knocked down when the Venetian Republic ceased to exist and it was placed back in The visitors enjoy visiting Colonna di San Marco due to its rich historical meaning. Address: Piazza delle Erbe, Verona 37121, Italy Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and Giovanni Dall'Orto N) Palazzo Forti Palazzo Forti is an impressive building that is located on a former Roman site. It is bordered by the Via Forti, the Via Massalongo, the Corso Sant Anastasia, and the Vicolo Due Mori streets. The structure, built in the thirteenth century, was the residence of Ezzelino da Romano, the former ruler of the Veneto region. The building was converted into a residence building after Ezzelino s death by his family. In the eighteenth century, architect Ignazio Pellegrinie remolded the building and gave it the look it has today. In 1937, Achille Forti, the last descendant, donated the palace to the city of Verona. The palace was turned into a museum in accordance with Forti s wishes. The museum operated for a year before being closed. When it reopened after the war, it was an art school and then administration offices for the town council. Except for a few shows in the 1960s, it was not until 1982 that the building became a fulltime museum again. Since 1982, the palace has hosted art exhibitions from many different genres. Picasso, Alberto Abate, Vanessa Beecroft, Vasco Bendini, Cindy Sherman, Roberto Barni, Katherine Doyle, and Luigi Presicce, Porto Cesareo. Currently the exhibition is located at the Palazzo della Ragione. - Page 15 -

16 - Page 16 - Address: Via Achille Forti, 1, Verona, Italy Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and Lo Scaligero O) Sant'Anastasia (must see) The Sant Anastasia is one of the biggest churches in Verona. Construction began on the structure in 1290 and was completed in It was designed by Dominican friars Fra Benvenuto and Fra Nicola da Imloa. The place of worship was built over an old church that was dedicated to the Saint Anastasia. It is located in the oldest part of the city and is a very popular church. The building reflects Gothic design and features three naves. The exterior façade of the building is brickwork and has stained glass windows and two belfries. The interior of the church is decorated with sculptured reliefs and statues that represent well-known saints and the life of Jesus. The tomb of Guglielmo di Castelbarco is near the church entrance. Verona churches are well known for the beautiful artwork displayed in their cathedrals and the Anastasia continues this tradition. Visitors will enjoy paintings of Saint Martino by Francesco Caroto and the Annunciation by Michele Giambono. Admittance to the building, and many other attractions, is free if you have a Verona card. Opening hours: (March-October) Monday-Saturday: 09.00am-6.00pm, Sundays and festival days: 1.00pm-6.00pm (November-February) Monday-Saturday: 10.00am-1.00pm /1.30pm-5.00pm, Sundays and festival days 1.00pm-5.00.pm Address: Vicolo Sotto Riva, 4, Verona 37121, Italy Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and Tango7174. Sight description based on Wikipedia. P) Verona's Cathedral (must see) Verona's Cathedral is a Romanesque and Gothic style church that dates back to the eighth century. It was built on the former site of two Palaeo-Christian churches. Verona cathedrals are known for their beautiful works of art and the cathedral lives up to this reputation. - Page 16 -

17 - Page 17 - The house of worship features stunning design and works of art such as the Assumption by the artist Titan and the adoration of Magi by Livebale di Verona. The design of the curved choir and apse and the sculptured baptismal font can only be fully appreciated in person. There are also many ancient Christian artifacts that visitors will appreciate. In addition, the Capella Mazzanti houses the sarcophagus of St. Agatha. The exterior of the building features a two-story porch that is decorated with sculptures by the Master Nicolo, Gothic windows, and an unfinished bell tower by Michele Sanmicheli. The interior of the church has one nave and two aisles that are divided by red Marble pilasters. Inside of the church are many works of art by local artists. The west bays are decorated with frescoes by Giovanni Maria Falconetto. Opening hours: Mar-Oct. working days a.m p.m. ;Mar-Oct sun. and religious holidays 1.30 p.m p.m. Nov Feb working days a.m p.m. Nov Feb sun. and religious holidays 1.30 p.m p.m. Address: Piazza Duomo in the Citta Antica, Verona, Italy Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and Langec. Sight description based on Wikipedia. Q) Ponte Pietra (must see) Romans are well-known for their contributions to art, literature, history, science, architecture, and engineering. One simply has to walk the city streets to see evidence of their accomplishments that still stand today. The Ponte Pietra, or Marble Bridge, is one of many examples of Roman excellence. The bridge is the oldest overpass in Verona. Although it dates back to 89 BC, it was actually completed in 100 BC. The viaduct is made of Tavertine brick, has five spans, is 120 meters long, and crosses the Adige River. The bridge offers picturesque views of the city and is a popular meeting spot for the locals, tourists, and lovers. The Ponte Pietra has endured many traumas, but has recovered each time. The bridge experienced a flood, was destroyed in the sixteenth century, and blown up by the Germans in In addition, the bridge collapsed in 1007, 1153, 1232, and Each time, the bridge was repaired and life moved on. - Page 17 -

18 - Page 18 - Other attractions you can enjoy after visiting the bridge include the Biblioteca Capitolare, the Duomo S. Maria Matricolare, the Verona's Cathedral, the Teatro Romano, and the Museo Archeologico. For those who wish to stay overnight near the Marble Bridge, the S. Giorgio in Braida provides business center services, dining, Internet access, meeting rooms, room and shuttle service at a low cost. Address: Ponte Pietra, Verona, Italy Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and Fabio Becchelli. Sight description based on Wikipedia. R) Teatro Romano (must see) The Teatro Romano is an ancient theater that was built during the first century. It is well-known for its many concerts, music performances, and ballets. It is the one of the oldest monuments in Verona. The theater seats 25,000 people. For centuries, the ruins of the theater were buried underneath residences which had been constructed on the property. In 1834, Andrea Monga bought the houses and began the renovation process. It is because of his efforts that the structure was saved. In 1904, the city purchased the area and continued renovations until the 1970s. Although most of the structure was lost due to the ravages of time, the cavea, tier of seats, several arches of loggias, and parts of the stage and the old theater survived. One can truly take a step back in time when visiting the Teatro Romano and imagine its many great performances. The theater is well-known for its Shakespeare Festival held from June to August each year. Jazz concerts in May, plays in June, and ballets in August are just a few of the treats you will enjoy. Admission is free the first Sunday of each month. Other attractions near the theater include the Museo Archeologico Nazionale Di Spoleto, the Basilica di San Salvatore, and the Tower's Bridge. Address: Regaste Redentore 2, Verona, Italy Image Courtesy of Flickr and Allie_Caulfield - Page 18 -

19 - Page 19 - S) Santuario Madonna di Lourdes (must see) Santuario della Madonna di Lourdes is located on the hills of St. Leonard. The building offers plenty of photo opportunities and is one of the greatest sightseeing stops in Verona. The church is modern, but still very pretty. Tourisits admire the colorful gardens and small pathways which lead to the Adige River. Address: Torricella, Verona, Italy Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and Lo Scaligero - Page 19 -