Situated in Northern Italy, Verona is an ancient city that became a colony of the mighty Roman empire in 300 B.C. But its more famous reference is that it forms the backdrop of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.
Verona boasts of a number of ancient Roman ruins that have stood the ravages of time mainly because of the restoration work being carried out periodically. One such magnificent structure is “The Arena.” Once used for contests and races by gladiators, The Arena today plays hosts to Operas and concerts during the summer months. The inner ring of the arena is almost what it was in the ancient times (even the acoustics), while only three storeys of the outer ring now remains. The “Roman theatre” another ruin similar to the Arena is style and structure, is another great tourist attraction.
It is because of the value of the ancient structures existing here, that UNESCO has named Verona as a World Heritage City.
Verona is also a symbol of Christianity with its skyline dotted with a number of beautiful churches. Santa Maria Matricolare is one such structure and is a perfect blend of Roman and Gothic forms. Flanked by spires and pinnacles, the church contains numerous works of art and is therefore a major source of attraction for those visiting the ancient city. The other masterpieces of Romanesque style are San Lorenzo and the Basilica of San Zeno.
The ancient structures reside along with the modern. The perfect example of this is the “Piazza delle Erbe” which is the commercial centre of the city. It is full of multi-coloured stalls and also has some of the most upscale and designer boutiques of modern times. Alongside these hip stores are some of the significant structures of historical interest like, Palazzo Maffei and the Case Mazzanti. The cobbled stone paths between the mélange of buildings and stalls are ideal for a leisurely walk, even as you are riveted by the ancient world making way for the new. The most interesting feature of this commercial centre is the statue of Madonna that stands atop a fountain. It is believed that it was built during the rule of the Romans, and was later converted into Christianity.
No trip to Verona is complete without visiting Juliet’s house, rather “The Balcony,” where she stood when Romeo declared his love for her. The Balcony is in marble, contrary to the house which has a brick façade. Many tourists complain that the balcony and the structure that supports it do not live up to the hype that surrounds it, but the fact that these fictional characters, of Romeo and Juliet, can draw crowds in droves, definitely calls for some of your time. The Casa di Guiletta has a bronze statue of Juliet that is supposed to bring good luck to those who touch it. You can even climb the balcony for a photographic memento to this visit.
Even though Romeo and Juliet’s homes are the main attraction of this city, it is a dream come true for those travelers who want to want to find their own favourite nook and corner of this ancient city. Every inch of this city is resplendent with an old world charm that is both captivating and bewitching.
