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 For visitors arriving by plane |
Piazza Aeroporto, 1 Verona, Verona 37018 Italy +39 45 861 9163 |
The tourist Information Office at "Valerio Catullo" airport is there to answer the questions of the many visitors arriving from abroad. It has a wide range of information and programmes of events in the city and the surrounding area, and is helpful for those wishing to organise both travel and accommodation during their visit. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Place of intercultural dialogue |
Vicolo Pozzo, 1 Verona 37129 Italy +39 45 59 6238 |
The African museum was founded by the Combonian missionaries in 1938 to give value to the materials which had been collected during their missions. The materials show the culture and daily life of the African populations. In 1996 the display area was radically changed. From a classical ethnographical museum, which stood out for its interesting but rather sterile displays, it was made into a centre for communication and intercultural dialogue. Thanks to radical restructuring and the use of modern multimedia techniques, the museum now offers a positive and unusual picture of the African continent. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Albert I's tomb |
Via delle Arche Scaligere, 1 Verona 37121 Italy |
To the right of the Arch of Cansignorio, you can find Albert I's sarcophagus. On the tomb's main faces there are sculptured images of the deceased on horseback between Saint Giacomo and Saint Mary Magdalen, and the Virgin Mary between the archangels Gabriel and Michael. The sides are decorated with symbolic bas-reliefs in a Byzantine style, these are attributed to an unknown Veronese artist. There are coats of arms on top of the tomb. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Tourism in the Lake Garda area |
Piazzale Aldo Moro Verona 37011 Italy http://www.aptgardaveneto.com |
Bardolino, a lovely area overlooking Lake Garda, is less than 30 kilometers from Verona is located in the lower basin. Set between the main road and a local one is the beautiful church of San Severo, probably founded by the Paleochristians and rebuilt by the Romans (1000-1100). In the nearby locality of Cisano is the Santa Maria another Roman church of much older origins, from the 4th century BC or even the 8th, as a pagan building. This is a lively area, popular with German tourists and Bardolino offers a variety of accommodation, from 4 star hotels to campisites. Between Bardolino and Cisano there are six 4-star hotels, one of which has two subsidiaries; 12 3-star hotels, twenty three 2-star hotels ( a few with awards); thirteen 1-star hotels and seven campsites as well as various two or three star rooms and apartments. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Russell Smith |
 Photo: James Allison |
 Photo: Giorgio De Polo |
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A combination of Nature and fun |
Loc. Torrente Valle Verona 37067 Italy +39 45 794 5131 |
This is a park which combines modern amusements and natural attractions to perfection. The water slides surrounded by trees allow visitors to relax and enjoy themselves simultaneously. Attractions worth noting are the classic kamikazi "Banzai", the pools of the "Niagara Run" which you cross on board an inflatable life raft, the aquatic car "Bumper Boat", swimming pools for children and adults, bowling greens, beach volley ball and foam football. It is perfect place for families because it has something for everyone: parents can relax or play sports, children can enjoy the exhilarating rides. There is also a pizzeria and restaurant, a bar, a campsite, souvenir stalls and a car park. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 One of the city's oldest churches |
Piazza SS. Apostoli, 2 Verona 37121 Italy |
The paleochristian remains below the apse demonstrate that this church already existed in the eighth century, although it was later modified, and was finally consacrated in 1194. At the beginning of the 16th century the three naves were joined together, the roof raised, and the side chapels were opened. After the Second World War the church underwent other changes. The lower half of the façade is Romanesque and includes some large corbels, all that is left of the original. The entrance is in red marble with three crosses carved in relief. There are three apses inside, and two chapels in red marble decorated with tondos and rosettes dating back to the beginning of the 16th century. The main altar dates back to the 18th century, while the vestry is preceded by a room with the remains of 16th century frescoes and a crib from the 15th century. You enter into the "Sacello delle Sante Teuteria e Tosca", the oldest church in the city, from the vestry. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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The knight with no face |
Via delle Arche Scaligere, 1 Verona 37121 Italy |
The arch of Mastino II (died 1351) began in 1345 by the Veronese masters under the influence of Tuscan works. The equestian statue of the knight, armed with a lance and with the viser of his helmet lowered to hide his face, is by some attributed to the Maestro of Cangrande. The tomb is surrounded by an ornate railing with statues of the Virtues at the corners. Four scenes are carved into the sides of the urn: the Crucifixion, Jesus with John the Baptist and the Virgin, an angel holding a shield and St. George presenting God with a mastiff. On the cover of the urn is carved the prone form of the deceased, watched over by angels, while the underside of the cusp of the baldacchino is decorated with biblical scenes and images of saints. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: likamccuntz |
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Mosaics and sculptures |
Via Regaste Redentore, 2 Verona 37121 Italy +39 45 800 0360 |
This was once a monastery of St. Jerome that was founded in the fifteenth century. Since 1924, the archaelogical museum has been on this site. It was founded by Antonio Avena who provided a rich exhibition of finds from Roman Verona as well as examples of Greek and Etruscan civilisations. In the first room, the mosaic room, there are some mosaic remains with figures from 3 AD which stand out. These come from a Roman villa. There is also the "Fight of the Gladiators" from the 1 AD. The sculpture room is next; it is also known as the refectory. It is reached by a corridor along which there are various marble busts, including a "Menandro" which is a fourth century Roman copy of a Greek original. In the sculpture room there are many Veronese marble statues. Particularly of note is a Roman copy of a Greek statue of a woman, probably Fidia's "Sitting Aphrodite" or Alcamene's "The Aphrodite of the gardens". There is also a large sacred female statue. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wilbri70 |
 Photo: Claire Ashman |
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Napoleon in church |
Via Nuova Verona 37040 Italy +39 45 763 5020 |
This building, which in the 19th century was a small church for nuns and a rest-home for Arcle, now houses, the 'Gustavo Alberto Antonelli' Napoleonic museum (inaugurated in 1984), named after the architect who donated the necessary materials and was responsible for the setting up of the museum. In the four rooms some very significant relics have been preserved, including period prints, documentary material, paintings, manuscripts, imperial style furnishings and other exhibits from Napoleonic times that cover episodes in the life of the famous French leader. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Information centre in the square |
FS Piazza XXV Aprile, 1 Verona 37121 Italy |
This is the central office of the Veronese Tourist Information Service, in the very central Piazza dell'Arena. It offers both suggested itineraries and guides on the main places of interest in the city and surrounding region, as well as access to a comprehensive list of hotels and restaurants. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mia Vaessen |
 The botanical garden of Europe |
Via Giovanni XXIII, 1 Verona 37013 Italy |
Baldo Mountain rises up between Lake Garda and the Lagarina Valley. During the last Ice Age, a watershed was created on its summit by the ice which appeared on the mountains, where various forms of plantlife began to grow. They then adapted to the rise in temperature when the ice melted. When the large Garda basin was formed, the side of the mountain that faced it underwent climatic changes which affected the vegetation and modified it to suit a Mediterranean climate. For this reason, the mountain is home to both olive groves and edelweiss, as well as hundreds of other types of plants, both coastal and alpine. It is possible to climb Baldo Mountain from different directions and in different ways. The easiest way is by cable car from Malcesine, and the most evocative way is to go up by car towards Lumini and Prada, and then to follow the military track in the Trovai Valley. From here, the path leads towards Telegrafo Peak (2110m high, it is an area full of interesting phenomena brought about by water erosion: 'campi carreggiati') and towards the glaciers ('circhi glaciali'). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Massimo Ugues |
 Photo: Massimo Ugues |
 Photo: Stephanie Stracke-L. |
 Photo: Hanneke van Druten  |
 Photo: Amanda White |
 Photo: bibbio60 |
 Photo: Matt Dennison |
 Photo: Fred Riley |
 Photo: thomson.paul |
 Photo: acerone |
 Photo: Doubter toad |
 Home of the town council |
Via degli Alpini, 8 Verona 37121 Italy +39 45 806 6485 |
Palazzo Barbieri has, since 1874 been the seat of the council offces, but was originally the 'Gran Guardia Nova' built for military purposes by Giuseppe Barbieri, between 1835 and 1848 on the site of the demolished Misericordia hospital. This large building in Avesa tuff, from a hamlet to the north of the city, is neoclassical in style with a Corinthian colonnade and a central body with a pronaos, also Corinthian in style which rises above a grand staircase. However, the circular body to the back was added immediately following damage to the building during the last war. Inside the building hang two large pictures illustrating Verona's story. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Massimo Ugues |
 Photo: Cristian Martinez |
 Photo: Domenico Aliperto |
 Photo: A. Mirijello |
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Church and monastery dedicated to the saint |
Stradone Provolo Antonio Verona 37123 Italy |
This is an important amalgamation made up of the monastery and the church dedicated to the saint, which was built half way through the fifteenth century by Giovanni da Capistrano. It was later restored after damaged sustained during the second world war. The brick facade is enhanced by a porch which is decorated with gothic spires at each extremity. The portal is Renaissance and there is also a cloister adorned by several frescos. The bell-tower too is built out of brick. The inner layout is made up of two naves built in Franciscan style, that is where the main nave is twice the size of the side nave which in turn opens up into several chapels. The flat ceiling, built beneath the tressled roof, is decorated with friezes dating back to 1461. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: paola |
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The main entrance |
Corso Cavour, 19 Verona 37121 Italy |
Palazzo Bevilacqua, headquarters of the state technical institute Ippolito Pindemonte is one of the four buildings in Verona designed by Michele Sanmicheli. Probably erected around 1534, the palace was left in an unfinished state, as can be seen from the asymmetrical position of the portal in respect to the part of the façade that has been erected. The ground floor is carved in stone, subdivided by pillars bearing busts of Roman warriors and with windows set in low arches. The top floor on the other hand, has four windows alternating with three doors, all surrounded by a large balcony balanced with very ornate, Greek-style voluted ledges. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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The Old Frizzolana |
Piazza della Chiesa, 34 Verona 37021 Italy +39 45 705 0088 |
The Tourist Information Service at Bosco Chiesanuova (called "Frizzolana" until 1621) has a large amount of information about the town, which is the major ski centre in the Lessinican mountains. If you are stopping at Bosco Chiesanuova, there are many different excursions into the surrounding areas that you should consider, whether you are more interested in places linked to Cimbrian history (an ancient local community), or would prefer to explore the natural features of the landscape, and geological sites such as the grotte of the "Covolo di Camposilvano". Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: sisde |
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A town of Furniture makers |
Piazza Costituzione, 1 Verona 37051 Italy +39 45 699 5264 |
Bovolone is espcially well known on account of it furniture workshops. However, in addition to the town's main business aspect, there are interesting architectural and historical features, as well as the surrounding countryside to be explored, which you can do with the help of the Tourist information office. Among other points of interest there are several castles in the surrounding area (at Salizzole, Sanguinetto and Concamarise), which are worth visiting even though the original architecture has nearly always been subject to renovation and restoration. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Children's paradise |
Via Fossalta 1 Verona 37017 Italy +39 45 759 0622 http://www.canevaworld.it |
L'Aqua Paradise is probably the most beautiful Italian water park. Amongst its many advantages is also that of being less well known, and therefore less crowded than other parks. The evocative setting of an 1800 Carribean village is a perfect surrounding for a water park with thousands of attractions, where trees and decorative structures are so dense as almost to block the view of the slides until you are very close. Some of these slides are only to be found here, not in the rest of Italy: the double "Black Hole" that runs completely underground, which you travel through on a rubber tyre, and the frightening "Stukas" - high and steep enough to frighten anyone. There are also more well known attractions like the kamikazi, the Anaconda or the brilliant "Water Jump". Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A leap into the past |
Via Fossalta 1 Verona 37017 Italy +39 45 759 0622 http://www.canevaworld.it |
Canevaworld is not only the most beautiful Italian water park; in fact, when evening chills call a halt to plunging into the swimming pools, the fascinating spectacle of a full Medieval evening begins, set in the year 1092. You will be among the lucky 400 people who, while happily feasting on the banquets provided by King Astolfo, will witness a classic medieval tournament which offers the hand of the princess Esmerelda as a prize for the victor. The entrance ticket covers the dinner and the show put on by the knights and their horses. There is no specified dress code, but it is advisable to book places in advance. The venue is covered and air-conditioned, and the feast includes delicacies that generally satisfy everyone, including children. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The destroyed fresco |
Corso Cavour, 48 Verona 37121 Italy |
Together with Palazzo Bevilacqua, Honorij and Pompei, Palazzo Canossa is one of the four buildings in Verona that were built by the sixteenth century architect, Michele Sanmicheli. He designed the building probably between 1530 and 1537 but it was not finished until around the second half of the 1600's by Lelio and Vincenzo Pellesina who kept to the original plans and built the two wings that overlook the Adige. The palace is built in stone, with framed, arch windows on the upper floor. In 1761 following the superelevation of the lounge to the upper floor the loggia was added to the pediment with statues of mythological figures by Giuseppe Antonio Schiavi. Giambattista Tiepolo painted the lounge vault with scenes from the 'Glory of Hercules' however, most of it was lost in the second world war bombings. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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The warrior Saints |
Via delle Arche Scaligere, 1 Verona 37121 Italy |
Among the early medieval arches, the most elaborate is the Cansignorio arch (1375). It was built by Bonino da Campione, who opted for a complex and fastidiously ornamented architecture: the gates that encircle it are enriched by shrines with the figures of the Warrior Saints Lodovico, Martino, Sigismondo, Quirino, Valentino and Giorgio. The tomb, on which lies the prone figure of the deceased, watched over by angels, is decorated with bass-reliefs depicting scenes from the Gospels. Above the tomb there is an arched baldacchino suppported by six twisted columns. On the top of the cusp stands the equestrian statue of Cansignorio, on a hexagonal base on which are carved bass-reliefs of the apostles. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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The smell of old parchments |
Piazza Duomo, 13 Verona 37121 Italy +39 45 59 6516 |
The Capitolare library is one of the most important library collections in the whole of Europe. It was founded in the fifth century as a "Scriptorium" for the "Schola Sacerdotum Sanctae Veronesis Ecclesiae", which has become today's Capitol, housed within the Canonicato palace since 1728, which was rebuilt in 1948 after its dstruction in the last war. The collection includes around 1,500 manuscripts, illuminated civil and legal documents, parchments and valuable illuminated works. Among the manuscripts some of the most valuable are the "Virgilio" from the fourth century, the "Istituzioni di Gaio", an original legal document from the fifth century, one of St. Augustine's "De civitate Dei" and the fifth century "Evangeliario purpureo" written in silver and gold. The library also holds splendid illuminated works like fifteenth century Biblical "Initia" and the "archivio dei canonici", which consists of over 11,000 parchments, the oldest of which dates from 710. Next to the library stands the Canonical museum, housing the city's most prestigious art gallery. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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'Prison for priests' |
Piazza Duomo, 13 Verona 37121 Italy |
In front of the small church of Santa Elena, a long lobby leads to the 'Chiostro del Duomo', also known as the 'Chiostro del Capitolo'. This Roman-style edifice was built around 1140 on the site of a Paleo-Christian basilica - the remains of which are still visible today. Much later, it was partially re-constructed after a bombing raid in 1945. Particularly remarkable are the mosaic floors, the double order of columns in red regent marble with the small two-ringed arch , and, in the centre the parapet over the fifteenth-century well. In one corner of the cloister stands the 'Carcer caplitis' or 'prison of priests'. Next to the cloister stands the 'Bibioteca Ccapitolare'. Dating back to the fifth century, this is one of the most well-stocked ecclesiastical libraries in Europe. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Panorama of the town walls |
Piazzale Castel San Pietro Verona 37129 Italy +39 45 834 9990 |
The Castel San Pietro was originally joined by a continuous wall around the Soccorso now stands on the ruins (still partially visible) of a viscount's castle built in 1389. In 1450 it was joined to other fortifications but was partly dismanteled by the French with the Austrians finishing the job off so that they could build neoromanic barracks on the site. From the castle's terrace there is a splendid panorama of the city walls. On the left hand side, the internal part of the medieval walls are visible from the Grotta to San Zeno in Monte whilst on the extreme right you can make out the castles of Santa Sofia, San Leonardo(now converted into the Madonna di Lourdes sanctuary), San Mattia, and other defence structures built by the Austrians. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Yumi Kondo |
 Photo: Marco Rossi |
 Photo: arkaninger |
 Photo: Grzegorz Gembala |
 Photo: Isabel Rodriguez |
 Photo: Christian Lanciai |
 Photo: Lorenza Faccioli |
 Photo: Esther_81 |
 Photo: Michele Albrigo |
 Photo: Joël REMAUD |
 Photo: Vanni Valle |
 Photo: Francis Helbig Raffo |
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The excavations at Ca' Nova |
Piazza Fracastoro, 8 Verona 37010 Italy +39 45 723 5022 |
The museum was set up following the drainage of a small lake in 1980 near Ca' Nova. This brought to light a settlement from two thousand years BC. It is full of examples from ancient and middle bronze age life.(1800-1500 BC. The museum contains finds which show their daily life: ceramics, daggers, small tables, amber and sewing frames. In another room they have reconstructed a Roman Necropolis which was found at Bossena. The museum also provides the opportunity to see a documentary on the excavations of Ca' Nova. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andreas Vlachos |
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the ancient Roman way of life |
Piazza Fiorini Verona 37060 Italy +39 44 255 0220 |
With this site only a few kilometers from Verona, archaeological enthusiasts shouldn't miss the chance to visit the Civic archaeological museum of Gazzo Veronese. This museum, like the handicraft and woodwork museum at Cerea, shows its visitors works of art from the outside, indeed the collection is housed in the sixteenth century Villa Poggiani which is a real treasure for art lovers. Inside the museum there are archaeological finds, most of which were found locally, which date back to different periods and are of different kinds. There are vases, glasses, bronzes, arms and necklaces from the Roman era and objects from the copper, bronze and iron ages. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The protomoteca |
Via Cappello, 43 Verona 37121 Italy +39 45 807 9710 |
The public library was established in 1792 and holds over 700,000 works including books, early printed material, manuscripts, prints, pamphlets, historical documents and collections of magazines and journals. The hall is a protomoteca, or rather a collection of decorative elements consisting of the ornamental heads of illustrious Veronese characters, once kept in the Loggia del Consiglio. Among the most valuable holdings id a ninth century copy of the "Istituzioni di Giustiniano" and the "Omelie di S.Agostino" from the same period. Among the early printed material there is a "Lattanzio" from 1465 that was the first dated work to be printed in Italy. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Shane MacClure |
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Fossilised fish |
Lungadige Porta Vittoria, 9 Verona 37129 Italy +39 45 807 9400 |
The civic natural history museum is in the sixteenth century Palazzo Pompei, a masterpiece by Sanmicheli. The building was given to the town in 1854 by Count Alessandro Pompei for it to become an exhibition site for scientific and ethnographic collections, and for renaissance artifacts and art collections. Whilst there was a time when the natural collections were few in comparison to the rest, the collection grew quickly with the passage of time. There were problems of space and it was only in 1936 that the art collections were moved to other buildings. Palazzo Pompei became an exhibition space exclusively for natural science. At present, there are nineteen rooms in which you can see more than 2 million examples of the world's animals, plants, geology, paleontology and prehistory. The fossilized fish from Bolca are a major attraction. They are contained in a weir which is 45 million years old. There are also the finds from the lake-dwelling on Lake Garda. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Roberto Ferrari |
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Magnificent Natural History Museum |
Lungadige Porta Vittoria Verona, Verona 37121 Italy +39 45 807 9400 |
This museum of natural history is situated in the sixteenth-century Pompei Palace. It consists of nineteen rooms containing exhibits which illuminate the evolution of our planet and provide a clearer understanding of nature - both past and present. The zoological collections are comprehensive as are the carefully-cataloged finds e.g. fossils from Bolca. The prehistoric objects discovered in the dwellings on Lake Garda are particularly remarkable. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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For the City Council |
Piazza dei Signori, 5 Verona 37121 Italy |
The Loggia del Consiglio was built between 1485 and 1492, to house the City Council. It was later restored between 1870 and 1874. It was the last building to be built in the Piazza dei Signori, with the obvious intention of celebrating the city's glorious past, present and future. For this reason, upon completion it was fitted with statues of the five greatest men of Verona during the Roman period: the poet Catullo, the writer Pliny (although he was actually from Como), Emilio Macro, the architect Vitruvio and the writer Cornelio Nepote. Over the door there is the inscription: 'Divine love in return for divine faith'. This was a gift to the city of Verona from Venice, as a reward for allowing itself to be tacked on to the Venetian Republic. Inside the building, various paintings with historical themes have been preserved. These were all commissioned by the City Council in 1596. Amongst these, is the 'Madonna with Saints Zeno and Peter -the patron saints of Verona and Veronese noblemen' by Bernardino India and Orlando Flacco. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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An Ancient Roman Shopping Street |
Corso Porta Borsari Verona 37121 Italy |
This pedestrian-only shopping district begins with a grandiose arch built by the Romans. This ancient sun-bleached wall was built in the third century as part of the ancient city's "decumano" gate. Upon passing through these imposing walls one is greeted with a narrow street lined with multitudinous boutiques selling hard to find local products in addition to gourmet restaurants, wine bars, and cafés such as Caffè Tubino. The atmosphere is vibrant while retaining a small-town feel, which makes this historic street the perfect place to take a stroll and drink in fair Verona. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Dante was here |
Piazza Duomo, 13 Verona 37121 Italy +39 45 59 2813 |
According to history, this is the church in which Dante read his "De quaestio de aqua e de terra" in 1320. The building was built in 813 by the archdeacon Pacifico and now stands to the left of the Duomo. It was originally built as a cathedral on the site where an early Christian basilica, and an even earlier Constantinian church once stood. Today the remains of these sites are still visible thanks to animportant archaeological excavation. On the right hand wall of the simple interior is a polychromatic triptych in stone dating back to 1300 and depicting the Madonna, St. John the Baptist, S. John the Evangelist and a faithful follower. There is also a fifteenth century wooden choral box. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fairs galore |
Piazzale Fiera, 1 Verona 37100 Italy +39 45 829 8111 |
The 'Fair District' is now in its second century of existence, given that it was first used as a bi-annual horse market in 1898. After this, it was used for agricultural and zoo-technics fairs. It eventually came to specialize in agricultural exhibitions. The 'Agriculture Fair' is its most well-known annual event and an important port of call for anyone interested in pursuing a career in the fields. It opens annually on the second Monday of March, and lasts for eight days: you will find absolutely everything connected with farming in the large pavilions and open spaces, from large four wheeled, motorized tractors to the latest make of pruning scissors. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Two buildings on top of each other |
Via Dogana, 2 Verona 37121 Italy +39 45 800 7287 |
This church was run by the Benedictines but was taken over by the Franciscans in 1260. It is made up of two buildings on top of each other with three naves and five apses, that began construction in 1065 together with the bell tower. It was built by the monks on the site of an ancient chapel which housed the relics of S. Fermo and S. Rustico. A severe flood led to the disuse of the lower church in 1757, however, it was later restored at the beginning of the twentieth century. The façade was finished in 1350 and is divided into two sections by a partly blind balcony. The lower section is built in lined tuff from lesene. The top half is alternates tuff and brickwork and has four very high trilobate lancet windows. A covered stairway dating back to 1592 leads into the church via a Romanesque portal made of polychrome marble. The inside of the upper church has a heavily engraved wooden ceiling and is adorned with frescoes by fourteenth and fifteenth century Veronese artists. The Brenzoni mausoleum is definitely the most valuable piece in the whole building. It was built between 1422 and 1439 by the Florentine Nanni di Bartolo. The urn is surrounded by statues of "the Resurrection of Christ" and overhead is a canopy held open by angels. Inside are the works by Pisanello of the "Annunciation" and of "S. Michele and s. Raffaele". A small stairway leads down to the lower church which is shaped like a Latin cross and whose walls are decorated with several frescoes from the sixteenth to the eighteenth century. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: victorprocure |
 Photo: Oriana Milani |
 Photo: Annette Cormack |
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Napoleon's residence |
Via Forti, 1 Verona 37121 Italy |
This palace is best known for the modern and contemporary art gallery that it houses, 'Achille Forti' and more importantly, for certain historical events. The building was already in existence in the XIII century as its oldest part can confirm and it can therefore almost certainly be dated in this period named 'the wing of Ezzellino da Romano' after the tyrant Ezzellino III who governed Verona between 1232 and 1259. After his death the palace underwent several architectural modifications, particularly during the Scaligera family's domination. The first took place in 1400 when the building was acquired by the Emilei family who made it into a residentila palace. The second was during the 1500's whilst the third took place in the 1700's with the front of the palace being reworked by the architect Ignazio Pellegrini. The palace, where Nelson even stayed during his Italian campaign has been passed on through generations of the Emilei family up to the last descendent, the botanist Achille Forti who, in 1937, gave it to the local council. Thanks to his will, the palace has now become a museum of modern art. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sindromedistendhal |
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Fossils galore |
Frazione Bolca di Vestenanova, 1 Verona 37030 Italy |
This is the most important museum in the world for tropical sea fossils: it is possible to admire fish, aquatic and terrestrial plants, shells as well as reptiles and insects which are all hard evidence (not Jurassic park now!), proof of what would have lived on a coral reef 50 million years ago. The fossils are mostly from "Pesciara" which is a tunnel to a quarry pit. You can visit it (even if you can't do your own digs!). Other finds are from neighboring areas, just showing that this branch of the Tetide sea, which washed against Lessinia in the Third Age was really rich with life. The museum is organised into three big rooms. It has also got a small tropical aquarium which is full of fish which are similar in shape to those which swam in the Lessinian waters 50 million years ago. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Farid Riman |
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Home to the Fresco museum |
Viale della Repubblica Verona 37126 Italy |
The Baroque formation which is S. Francesco al Corso is home to the Museo degli affreschi, named after the art historian Giovanni Battista Cavalcaselle. It was set up in 1973 and brings together those frescoes which have, through the centuries, come unstuck from the holy and civic buildings of Verona. The church was rebuilt in 1625 on pre-existing foundations which date to around 1230. It houses some of the most important examples of art of the Veronese school. Those works which must be mentioned are the "Crocifissione" and the "S. Caterina di Alessandria" by Caroto, the "Battesimo di Costatntino" by Brusasorci and the famous gilt bronze "Annunciation" by Campagna, which dates back to around 1609. Across a stairway in the cloister, there are two rooms. Legend has it that the smaller of the two houses Juliet's tomb. Open: 8:30a-6p Services: 8:30a, 6p Monday-Friday, 6p Saturday. Holidays: 9a, 10a, 11:30a, 6p. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Elisa Panetto |
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Rescued frescoes |
Via del Pontiere, 9 Verona 37122 Italy +39 45 800 0361 |
Set up in 1973 this museum takes its name from the art historian Giovanni Battista Cavalcaselle. It conserves frescoes which have been removed from religious and state buildings in Verona since last century. On the upper floor, in the first room there is a display of a group of frescoes from 1180. They were found on a second layer in the votive chapel of the SS. Nazaro and Celso. In the second room, there are displays of frescoes taken from Palazzo Guarienti ai Filippini. They contain allegorical scenes which are attributed to Paolo Farinati. Finally there is a third room in which there frescoes by Felice Brusasorci and Bernardino India. These came from the now demolished Palazzo Fiorio Della Seta. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Between fiction and reality |
Gardesana Orientale Verona 37014 Italy +39 45 644 9777 http://www.gardaland.it/ |
Gardaland is the best and largest theme park in Italy. There are many rides which have contributed to its success including: a journey amongst the pharaohs in 'Valley of Kings' and a trip round a pirate village in 'The Buccaneers'. You can also visit the 'Village of the Elves' and venture through the uncultivated jungle. However, the best rides are aimed at the bravest visitors: start with a terrifying freefall from a height of 40 metres in 'Space Vertigo', then wander through a Russian mountain range (the first of its kind ever constructed in Italy) in 'Blue Tornado' and finally explore some more traditional mountains in 'Magic Mountain'. After all this, when the heat is beginning to get to you, why not try an aqueous descent in a carved out tree trunk ('Colorado Boat') or a journey through the rapids in 'Jungle Rapids?' There are hundreds of other attractions as well as live shows. The park - which has been carefully put together, right down to the finishing touches - is also host to a number of restaurants and gift shops. It would be a crime to miss it. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Francesco Dazzi |
 Photo: Simone Ramella |
 Photo: Malaffo Enrico |
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Ex Benedictine monastery |
Lungadige S. Giorgio, 6 Verona 37129 Italy +39 45 834 0232 |
This church is located on the river bank of the same name. It was built as a monastery by the Benedictines in 1046 and was handed over to the Venetian Friars of S. Georgia in alga in 1442. The building of the present-day church was started in 1477 and finished by Sanmicheli, who built the presbytery the dome and the bell tower that was unfinished because of a ban placed by the military. The façade is dressed in white marble and divided in two parts. There is one nave inside which is covered by a vaulted buttressed ceiling, and has four chapels on either side. The church is adorned by several remarkable painting by sixteenth century venetian masters. Those which deserve particular consideration are the "Martyrdom of St. George" by Veronese, the "Baptism of Christ" and the "Pentecoste" by Tintoretto, and hung over the main altar is a copy of Veronese's "Miracolo di S. Barnaba", the original has ended up in the louvres in Paris thanks to Napoleon's pillaging. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: umbe |
 Photo: kayugee |
 Photo: Domhnall Walsh |
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Built at the height of the Middle Ages |
Via S. Giovanni in Valle, 36 Verona 37121 Italy |
This church is at odds with the surrounding Gothic and Romanesque buildings. Its foundations are medieval even though it was built in Romanesque style in 1120, and restored after some damage was sustained during the second world war. The façade is in tuff with several windows and a fifteenth century marble portal with a suspended portico and a lunette adorned with a fresco by Stefano da Verona depicting the "Madonna con SS. Antonio Abate e Bartolomeo". Inside, the church is divided into three naves flanked by pillars. Once in the raised presbytery, which is accessible via a seventeenth century stairway, there are columns topped by Corinthian capitals as well as pillars. The ceiling is formed out of wooden trusses and the walls still hold some frescoes, though mostly damaged during the last world war. Open: 9a-8:30p Services: 6p Monday-Friday, 8:30p Saturday. Holidays: 9a, 11a. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Churchill's villa |
Frazione Punta San Vigilio, 1 Verona 37016 Italy |
For anyone wanting to enjoy an unforgettable view of the southern Garda basin and the small, romantic bay of the Sirens, Punta San Virgilio is an obligatory place to stop. Nearby stands the 16th century villa Guarienti, today a hotel, attributed to the architect Michele Sanmicheli. Founded as a "place of delight" and pleasurable intellectual activites by the Brenzoni family, it later offered hospitality to many well known figures: among others, the famous British Prime Minister Winston Churchill. The little 14th century church of San Virgilio is also nearby. It houses a statue of San Giovanni Nepomuceno, the patron saint of sailors, in an outside niche. From here, it is even possible to return to Garda on foot (through the Castei del monte Luppia area) following the WWF nature trail. It is about a two hour walk, through remarkably beautiful scenery. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Not just a garden |
Corso Cavour Verona 37121 Italy |
Although it is the Renaissance style gardens here that are best know, being one of the most beautiful in Verona, the Palazzo Giusti is also worth a visit. The building is the work of the architect Francesco Perotti and was probably built around 1572. It is built in a U-shape, a typical characteristic of suburban palaces. On the façade, there remains a few of the original decorations painted in 1591 by Orazio Farinati. Inside there are several frescoes which are the work of Francesco Lorenzi and Lodovico Dorigny. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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A romantic balcony |
Via Cappello, 21 Verona 37121 Italy |
This is an obligatory port of call for any visitor to Venice, not least to see the Juliet statue, dedicated to the joys of being in love.The building, is based on the 13th century design, was built on the remains of a Roman 'insula' building. The elegant balcony which looks out over the courtyard was renovated by Antonio Avena in 1935, while the much-photographed Juliet statue is by Nereo Costantini. Juliet's house is now the property of the state and is used to house temporary art exhibitions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The world's most famous lover |
Via delle arche Scaligere, 2-4 Verona 37121 Italy |
According to tradition, this 14th century building with Gothic elements is where Romeo lived (even if historians say that it was the house of Cagnolo Nogarola). The principle façades look out onto an internal courtyard, adorned with arcades and passageways. The house, which looks like a fortress with numerous crenellations at the top, may be observed from the outside and is not open for tours; however, a trip to Shakespearean Verona would not be complete without taking a few pictures of the the house of the most romantic Montague. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Federico Lovat |
 Photo: Matthew Fitzsimmons |
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Roman house with vineyard |
Via della Torre, 1 Verona 37022 Italy |
A Roman house in the heart of the Veneto region, this Renaissance building was constructed according to the then popular style dating from 500 years previously: this is the Villa della Torre Cazzola, the "closed" structure of which offers a fine alternative to Palladio's designs. The building stands around a central courtyard with columns, onto which the main areas face: on the ground floor there are four rooms, in which there are fireplaces in the form of monstrous beasts with gaping jaws. Behind the villa, there is a courtyard with a fishpond and a cave, while the former garden has now become a vineyard. In fact, a sip of wine is very welcome after having braved the jaws of the terrifying fireplaces! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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District of Medieval Verona |
Via Interrato dell'Acqua Morta Verona 37129 Italy |
The street takes its name from the canal which cut off the 'island', one of the most characteristic districts of Medieval Verona. This was where the 'radorali' or carpenters lived; it was an affluent area judging by the presence of houses full of frescoes. The Adige flood of 1883 irrevocably changed the area. Beautiful buildings were later constructed along the embankment, including, at the end of the nineteenth century, palaces with quarters that were rented out. Today, the Verona City Council has plans to re-develop the area using urban planning methods. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Linda Tonolli |
 Underground life |
c/o Ostello della gioventù Salita Fontana del ferro, 15 Verona 37129 Italy |
The Laboratory of Subterranean Biology focusses on the study of biospelaeology, like the study of underground life. This discipline was founded in 1831, by the Austrian entymologist Count von Hohenwart, who discovered the first examples of cave insects in the caves of Postumia. The subterranean laboratory, which is situated near the youth hostel, was first housed in an ancient cave which had been used as an air-raid shelter during the Second World War. The cave is a horizontal cavity of around 80m, with a temperature of around 11 °C. Above it lie the grounds of the Villa Francescatti. This underground centre is concerned with protecting the environment and with promoting spelaeological activity in the region. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Maffei's ingenuity |
Piazza Bra, 28 Verona 37121 Italy +39 45 59 0087 |
Il Lapidario, one of the oldest public museums in Europe, was established in 1714, thanks to the work of the Marquis Scipione Maffei, a well-known man of culture, of Veronese origin. The origin nucleus of the museum can be found in the small space between the old walls that join Piazza Bra with Castelvecchio, made up of thirty of the Nichesola family's roman marbles collected by the philharmonic academy and displayed in the courtyard opposite the building. Subsequently, Maffei, after obtaining permission from the Venetian state, increased the collection to over two hundred valuable marble statues. It is widely believed that the Marquis was not averse to robbing a few tombs in order to decorate the rooms of the museum. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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2000 year-old gateway |
Via dei Leoni Verona 37121 Italy |
On the Via dei Leoni stands the Leoni Gateway, a fine example of Roman architecture from the late-Republican period, i.e. the middle of the first century B.C. The gateway is set in the city walls at the end of the 'cardo maximus'. For a time, the gateway was taken away to be restored, and was finally returned to its original position in 1959. It is very similar to the gateway of a gallery, with a rectangular central courtyard and polygonal towers (the foundations of which are still visible) outside. The left side of the interior is still visible. This is built from brick and tufa, with a stone avant-corps which was added at the time of Claudius. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Paolo Rosa |
 Photo: Paolo Rosa |
 Photo: jim@jimrhodes.net |
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Regional park |
Via Ca' di Cozzi, 41 Verona 37124 Italy |
They nicknamed it the 'wonderful park because there are some real marvels here. There are the fossilised fish from Bolca, the waterfalls of Molina, the Covolo di Camposilvano, the valley of the sphynx, the basalt columns of San-Giovanni Ilarione and the bridge of Veja, to name but a few. This is also accompanied by a very rich and diverse natural environment in an area, dominated by the culture of the Cimbri, former descendents of German woodcutters. There are many ways to discover Lessinia, firstly you can visit the museums and typical sights. But then there is a more gradual discovery that can be made with your walking boots on your feet and rucksack on your back along the mountain paths. Because Lessinia is a great place to go, whatever the weather. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A walk in Piazza Bra |
Piazza Bra' Verona 37121 Italy |
The Liston is a porticoed promenade which runs along the Piazza Brà on the side opposite the town hall. Historically, it dates back to 1790 when the vast pavement was laid upon which stood five refined palaces as well as more modest housing. Today the Liston promenade is a classical one for locals and tourists alike. Sat at one of the tables of the many (almost too many) bars and restaurants you can enjoy a splendid view of the extensive piazza Bra (from "braida" and the German "breit" meaning 'wide' and indicating an extensive urban area and parade ground with the Arena (1st century AD), the neoclassical town hall (1848), and the Gran Guardia palazzo (1610 but only finished in 1821). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Renato Lorini |
 Photo: Damiano Tietto |
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Good example of Veronese Romanesque style |
Corso Cavour Verona 37121 Italy |
This is a typical Veronese Romanesque church. It is enclosed and still has several open air women's galleries. It has been built since the eighth century but it was reconstructed around 1110 with the addition of the "classic" Romanesque naves and cross vaulting. The facade is flanked by two round towers, of varying heights, built in tuff and brick. The base of the left hand tower is made up of a large Roman stone with sculpted reliefs, inside which is the winding staircase to the women's galleries. The three naves are divided by crossed pillars and marble columns with capitals dating from various ages. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Mysterious foundation |
Corso Porta Nuova, 12 Verona 37121 Italy |
It is an excellent example of a Veronese Romanesque church. The details about the date it was built and its consecration are very sketchy. Most of the building, inside and out, was restored in 1753. On the inside of the facade is a stational cross which was made by a Veronese artist in 1340. A "Guardian Angel" by Claudio Ridolfi and "Assunta" by Orbetto hang on either side of the right hand door Across the road one can also see the ex-church of S. Maria della Ghiaia, also in the Romanesque style. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gianluca BRASCHI |
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Sanctuary designed by Sanmicheli |
Piazza Madonna di Campagna, 2 Verona 37132 Italy |
The Santuario di Madonna di Campagna, also called S. Maria della Pace, deserves at least half a day's visit. It was designed by Michele Sanmicheli, but the design was probably slightly modified during building by Bernardino Brugnoli. The building plan is a cross between an irregular Greek cross for the presbytery, and octagonal for the nave. The interior has a majestic vault and dome which contains many important works of art. These include a "Deposition" and a "Flagellation" by Felice Brusasorci, a "Nativity" by Farinati, and a fresco dating back to the end of the 14th century depicting the "Madonna with Child Enthroned between Saint Bartholomew and Antonio Abate" - the church was built to contain this work. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The sanctuary on the mountain |
Frazione Spiazzi, 1 Verona 37013 Italy |
It is an impressive place to have chosen as a site for a sanctuary. It clings to the side of a mountain with an enormous mass of rock which seems to hang right over the roof. However, legend has it that the place was chosen by a miracle; there was a statue of Our Lady of Sorrows which disappeared from the Rodi in 1522 during the Turkish occupation of the island. It reappeared in Spiazzi, in a place which was barely accessible with a breathtaking panorama, at the summit of the Adige valley. The sanctuary was built on that very site, and since then there has been a continuous flow of pilgrims. The greatest number is on the 19th September which is the Patron saint's day. In 1989 Pope John Paul II also went up to this point. The sanctuary was built in the first half of the sixteenth century, rebuilt in 1625 and subsequently enlarged and rebuilt in later periods. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Entrance to the Arena |
Piazza Bra Verona 37121 Italy |
Those who arrive in Verona by train will pass through two gateways. The first is the Porta Nuova and the second set are the 'Portoni della Bra' at the entrance of the Piazza Bra. The 'Portoni della Bra' consists of two stone archways, erected in 1480 on the site of a gateway that made up part of the city walls. A short distance away, a pentagon-shaped tower remains, a sole remnant of the fortifications put up at the time of the Viscounts. Passing through the archways is a significant experience; one feels one is entering the heart of old Verona, into the piazza dominated by the immense structure of the Arena. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Massimo Ugues |
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Tourism around Lake Garda |
Verona, Verona 37018 Italy |
Malcesine is one of the most beautiful, evocative, and picturesque towns on the shores of Lake Garda. It has cobbled streets, a castle, some really beautiful buildings, and a promenade along the shores of the lake. It is a place where architecture and nature live side by side in perfect harmony. It is located near the head of the lake, a few kilometres from Torbole (much loved by surfers) and Riva del Garda. There is a wide range of accomodation available, from four star hotels to campsites, and the town's attractions, apart from those connected with the lake, include a cableway, and the castle which dominates the small town. During the Middle Ages the Della Scala family restored and reinforced the pre-existent, ancient Malcesine fortress, which had a 30 metre high tower. The castle is built entirely of stone, and has three floors which can be reached by a long spiral staircase leading up from the lowest courtyard. Goethe was arrested for spying in Malcesine when he was caught drawing the castle. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Cangrande's spulchre |
Via Arche Scaligere, 3 Verona 37121 Italy +39 45 59 5508 |
This is one of the first examples of Veronese Romanesque architecture. It was founded in the seventh century but was restored and rebuilt several times until it was consecrated for the final time in 1185 by Gotifredo, the patriarch of Aquileia. There is a tomb or sepulchre over the door of Cangrande della Scala, the patron known for being mentioned by Dante, who had been exiled from his court. The urn is supported by dogs holding the coat of arms between their paws. The middle has a "Pieta'" upon it, while the sides are adorned with an "Annunciation". Each corner represents four cities and four conquests. The statue of Cangrande is lying down and is covered by a canopy, the original of which is on display in the courtyard of Castelvecchio. The inside is divided in three naves flanked by colonnades with elevated arches, ending up in three apses. Open: 8a-6p Services: 9a, 4p, 6p Monday-Friday, 4p, 6p Saturday. Holidays: 8a, 10a, 4p, 6p. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Len Power |
 Photo: Len Power |
 Photo: Heng-Hsuan Chu |
 Photo: François Chamberland |
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On the water's edge |
Piazzetta S. Maria in Organo Verona 37129 Italy |
Once this church faced the waters of the Isolo and was accessible via a bridge. It was an ancient Benedictine abbey which dates back to the seventh century when it was outside Rome's protective circle. It became part of that area in the twelfth century and the monastery was passed into the hands of the Olivetans in 1444. They rebuilt the beautiful cloister which is now an elementary school. In the sixteenth century Sanmicheli added a white marble facade to the gothic-Romanesque structure. The inside had three cross-vaulted naves. The side naves have paintings dating back to 1500 and the apses subdivided by red marble columns with renaissance capitals. The Frescoes in the central nave are by Nicolo' Golfino and Francesco Caroto. The "Annunciation" by Cavazza and the "Strage degli innocenti del cavazza" upon the triumphal arch of the presbytery, are both worth a mention. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Medieval house |
Piazza delle Erbe, 2 Verona 37121 Italy |
The Casa dei Mazzanti stands to the north east of the Piazza delle Erbe, a renovation carried out between 1515-29, of the former "Domus Bladorum" dating from the Middle Ages. The building housed shop and stores, both rented and privately owned, while the upper floor was the location for the public grain store. The portico was added in 1480: frescoes by Alberto Cavalli (1530) decorate the façade, representing the Allegories of Ignorance, Greed, Love and Moderation. The rear part of the building is also interesting, with uncovered medieval beams and remains of the decorations and frescoes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ben Trevino |
 Photo: Andrea Battistel |
 Photo: Gerdy Ling |
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The liberator king |
Piazza Bra Verona 37121 Italy |
In the centre of the gardens, which are next to the Arena, there is an equestrian statue which is dedicated to Victorio Emanuele II of Savoy (1820-1878),the first king of Italy and nicknamed the "gentleman". The monument was erected for the reasons written on the base: "on the fifth anniversary of his death, tears are shed for him by the whole of the civilized world-9th January 1883." It is to thank the sovereign who "with wonderful virtue made a weak and divided Italy into an independent and free whole". Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: JaseMan |
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A sword pointed against the sky |
Piazza delle erbe Verona 37121 Italy |
A statue of a woman who points her threatening and pointed sword towards the sky. This monument, which commemorates a tragic event of the first World War, is on one side of the Piazza delle Erbe. On 14th November 1915, an Austrian aeroplane machine gunned the historical city centre hitting many civilians who happened to be at the market place. This barbaric attack against unarmed and defenseless people has never been forgotten by the Veronese people. On 14th November 1920, this statue was erected in remembrance. The female figure symbolizes the city which is in pain but not defeated. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Matteo Medori |
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Venetian sculpture and painting |
Corso Castelvecchio, 2 Verona 37121 Italy +39 45 59 4734 |
The castle of the Scaligeri family was converted into a museum in 1925. Since then it has hosted important collections of works of art in its rooms. These include sculptures from the XIV and XV centuries, tables from Medieval times through to the XVIII century, as well as jewelery, miniature paintings, clothes and arms. In the first room there are display of Romanesque Veronese sculpture and some particularly interesting items: including the so-called "Treasure of Rizza Island" from the fourteenth century. The second, third and fourth rooms are all full of Scaligeri sculptures from the Fourteenth century. In the fifth room they display fifteenth century works of art. Rooms 9-10 display frescoes from the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries. In room 11 there is a presentation of international Gothic art. The next rooms, connected to the upper floors, exhibit paintings by Veronese and Venetian artists from the Renaissance including Liberale, Giolfino, Morone and Falconetto. The Venetian masters from the sixteenth century are all in room 22. In the next rooms there are collections from the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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For lovers of classical music |
Piazza Bra Verona 37121 Italy |
The Accademia Filarmonica's museum-library, founded in 1543 is the ideal place for music scholars and in fact, entrance is only granted to the latter. The library houses a wealth of texts devoted to the history of music, with a section specialising in old music mainly from the 1500's and another specialising in nineteenth century compositions. At the same time, the building also serves as a museum, displaying many wind instruments from the Renaissance that were in fact used by the Philharmonics. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Church built over site of Roman temple |
Piazza Squaranto Pigozzo, 2 Verona 37129 Italy |
This building was erected in 1464 by the Benedictines. It was built over the site of a Roman temple. Some traces of the frescoes from the temple can still be seen in the church's interior. It was also built next to the tomb of two 8th century saints. The façade is Gothic in style, and is made of bricks. It has renaissance windows. Some pilaster strips which indicate the division into three naves inside, are visible on the façade. The three apses are in a cross formation while the naves are divided by Doric pillars which support Ionic pillars holding up the vault. There are five chapels with frescoes and canvases on each side. One of the apses contains a wonderful painting, "Saints John the Baptist, Benedict, Nazaro, and Celso", a fifteenth century work by Bartolomeo Montagna. He also signed the four scenes of the "Life of Saint Biagio" around the altar. The tomb of the two saints is behind the church, inside the "Giorgi" technical institute. It is not accessible to the public, and is dug into the mountainside. It is largely destroyed. The frescoes which decorated the tomb have been removed and are now in the Fresco Museum. The timigs are as follows: Open: 9a-6:30p. Services: 6:30p Weekdays. 9a, 10a, 11:30a, 6:30p Weekends. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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The gateway to the station |
Piazzale Porta Nuova Verona 38138 Italy |
The Porta Nuova goes along the Trinita' bastion (1836), and was built into the 1531 rampart. It stands alone and was constructed between 1533 and 1546 by the military architect and engineer Michele Sanmicheli. The Austrians modified it in 1854 finishing off the facade in tuff and opening up the two archways on the side. Therefore, only the central archway opened towards the countryside in the original sixteenth century gate. The keystone carries a sculpture of Jupiter's head. The Porta Nuova train station is not far from the gateway and the Verona Exhibition and Trade Fair center is only two kilometers down the road. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: nopalmtrees |
 Photo: Trevor Jones |
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The Teatine church |
Piazza S. Nicolò, 13 Verona 37121 Italy +39 45 800 0167 |
This church is also known as the Teatine church and was built between 1627 and 1683 by Lelio Pellesina. It was restored after the second world war and some features of the facade were added on from the church of S. Sebastiano which had been completely destroyed during the war. There is only one nave inside and its walls are lined with Corinthian pilasters which mark out several niches containing statues, above which hang some interesting paintings. In the presbytery is an imposing baroque altar which was built by Guarino Guarini after the 1630 plague Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Sanmicheli's gateway |
Stradone Porta Palio Verona 37122 Italy |
The Porta del Palio is one of the most well-known gateways in Verona. It was designed by Sanmicheli and its construction was finished by 1561. It has three archways and is adorned with a host of busts depicting heroes of war. The Porta di San Zeno and the Porta Fura or "delle catene" (the chain gateway), are close by. The latter derived its nickname from the watch tower in the middle of the river. A chain was strung across the Adige from the tower in order to prevent the crossing of vessels that had not paid the customs duties. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Beautiful museum in centre |
Vicolo Pozzo,1 Verona, Verona 37129 Italy |
This is a permanent exhibition set up by the Combonians in 1938, to educate Europeans about the culture of the African people groups to whom missionaries were sent. Placards, multimedia materials and special displays tell the history of the continent's different populations and generic displays describe and contrast the fauna and flora, musical instruments, games and furnishings of Africa with those of Europe. The creativity of the African artists and the refined quality of their absolutely original arts is expressed through sculpture, musical instruments and jewelry. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Theatre where Mozart performed |
Piazza Bra, 26 Verona 37121 Italy |
The Teatro Filarmonico was started in 1605 by Domenico Curtoni. His design was obviously Palladian in inspiration and was originally in the form of a semicircle with an open gallery in wood. The majestic façade with its columns was erected in 1608, and the reception (now the theatre's foyer) in 1612. In 1770 Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart performed here, he was only 14 at the time. The form of the building that you see today was completed in 1729. A fire destroyed much of it in 1749, while in 1945 it was hit and damaged by bombs: it was rebuilt in 1969. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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The piazza of the bourgeoisie |
Piazza Bra, 1 Verona 37121 Italy |
The heart of the Veronese beats in Piazza Bra and not simply because the world-famous Arena is the piazza's centrepiece. Walking in piazza Bra after a while you get used to the sight of it and tend not to notice it any more. The 'liston' of the Piazza Bra, or the paving stones laid in 1770 to facilitate the elegant passage of the bourgeoisie, is what saved it from mediocrity at the end of the 1700's. Today the piazza is crowned with many palaces that carry the names of the most important Veronese families. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: bexifeena |
 Photo: Fiona |
 Photo: Andrea Pineda |
 Photo: Renata Medero |
 Photo: Francesca Leoci |
 Photo: Yaniv Ben-Arie |
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Bridge on Via Postumia |
Via Sabbionaia Verona 37121 Italy |
This stone bridge was built after the second World War, between 1957 and 1959, on the site of an ancient Roman bridge on the Via Postumia, an important line of communication between Genoa and Aquileia. The bridge has five arches: the one on the left dates back to the Roman period, the central one, and the one after it are by Antonio Scarpagnino and date back to 1520, while the final one on the right and the brick tower intended for the defense of the bridge were built at the time of Alberto I della Scala (1298). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jim Oatway |
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Founded on top of and ancient cemetery |
Piazzetta S. Pietro Incarnario, 3 Verona 37121 Italy +39 45 800 4925 |
This church gets its name from the ancient Roman "carnarium", literally the abattoir or charnel house and cemetery, upon which it was built in 955. The remains of the old building can still be seen in the basement of the current church. Some rebuilding work was carried out after the second world war, including moving back the facade because of the roads and traffic. Inside there is a votive shrine built by Giovanni di Rigino and dedicated to the "Vergine, S. Pietro, S. Giovanni con lo scultore e le stimmate di S. Francesco". There is also a valuable twelfth century fresco in the abse of the "Madonna and saints" by Felice Brusasorci. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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15th century paintings |
Piazza Duomo, 13 Verona 37121 Italy |
Next to the Biblioteca Capitolare we find the Museo Pinacoteca Canonicale which is one of the most important museums in Europe thanks to the extent and antiquity of its collections. Inside there are some considerable collections of paintings and also stone sculptures, with the latter being on display in the main room, the most notable being a relief model representing "SS Ermagora e Fortunato," executed in 1120 by a maestro from Como together with the "Arcangelo Michele" by a Veronese artist, from the first half of the 1300's. Further along we come across an exhibition of paintings mainly from the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries. The main pieces include the "Madonna col Bambino coronata da angeli"(Madonna with child surrounded by angels) by Nicoli Solimani, the "Madonna allattante" (Breastfeeding Madonna) and the "Madonna col Bambino" (Madonna with child) by Liberale da Verona and the "Natività" (Nativity ) by Nicolo Giolfino. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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An example of classical severity |
Lungadige Porta Vittoria, 9 Verona 37129 Italy |
The civic museum of Natural Science is housed in this work of art. The collections are actually on display in the rooms of the Palazzo Lavezola Pompei, one of Michele Sanmicheli's most important constructions, with four of them being here in Verona. The building, which is a real masterpiece in terms of its strictly classical inspiration, was probably built after 1537 and most likely in 1550. Its original location would have been different and would not have enjoyed the shelter of the Porta Vittoria. The ground floor is in boss, or carved stone with six windows and the portal over which we find the upper floor called the 'piano nobile' with seven large windows in a balustrade arch with satyrs' heads in the keystones interspersed with golden semi-pillars. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jehpin Liew |
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The steam train that is still puffing along |
Magazzino Centrale Logistico F.S. Porta Vescovo Porto S. Pancrazio Verona 37129 Italy |
Anyone who, as a child, has imagined travelling to distant worlds, on an old steam train, will not be able to resist the charms of Verona's railway museum. Examples of both modern and old rolling stock can be found on display in this museum with some of the pieces still in full working order. The miniature steam train is of particular interest as are scale models of locomotives, model carriages and cars and electric locomotives. One part of the museum is devoted to old uniforms and other railway memorabilia. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The battle of Rivoli |
Piazza Napoleone, 1 Verona 37010 Italy +39 45 728 1309 |
Studying history can often be somewhat tedious. Leafing through pages and pages of past events is not one of the most pleasurable ways of passing time. And so for this reason, anyone who wants a more unusual and enjoyable way of learning some of Italy's history, should take advantage of what the Rivoli Napoleonic museum has to offer. A plastic model, perfect in every detail, captures the drama of the battle of Rivoli that took place on fourteenth January, 1797 during Napoleon's Italian campaign. The museum also houses relics, pictures and portraits, autographed documents, prints and period reproductions that are testimonial to the events of the Napoleonic period. Finally, one section of the museum is devoted to the Italian Risorgimento of the early 19th century. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Focal point of urban life |
Piazza delle Erbe Verona 37121 Italy |
The central Piazza delle Erbe was the focal point of urban life in ancient Verona. It is located on the site of the ancient Roman Forum. Originally it was large (56metres x 68 metres) and rectangular and then it was adapted to a Medieval shape and reduced in size. It was then delimited by the construction of the Palazzo del Comune During the Scaligera period, it became a centre for trade and commerce; to this end, various symbolic elements were added, such as the Fountain of the Madonna Verona, the Market Column (a Gothic structure built in 1401 to bear the viscount's insignia), the 'berlina' (a marble canopy built to host the investiture of public office) and the San Marco Column. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ann Ku |
 Photo: Ann Ku |
 Photo: Piero Fissore |
 Photo: Natalia Kourlovitch |
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One of the oldest churches in Verona |
Via della Pieve, 1 Verona 37010 Italy |
The Valpolicella is a beautiful valley that stretches out from the North of Verona. The presence of small, pretty parish churches called pieve, which create a very evocative atmosphere, make it particularly attractive to tourists. Amongst all these churches, the Church of S. Giorgio in S. Giorgio Inganapoltròn around 18 kilometres from Verona is especially worth a mention. The place's curious name derives from the fact that the town seems very near by, but in fact is quite far off, above all if you want to get there on foot. The pieve of S. Giorgio is one of the oldest in the whole region, and dates back to around the 11th-12th centuries. It is Romanesque in style and has three East facing apses, as well as some beautiful 13th century cloisters next to it. The bell tower has mullioned windows with two lights. Inside the church there is a baptismal font again dating back to the 11th century.The most prestigious piece in the church is a Lombard ciborium, that is to say a baldachin tabernacle placed on the main altar, which rests on four columns made in 712 by Maestro Orso under Liuntprando. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Religious core of the city |
Piazza Duomo, 13 Verona 37121 Italy |
This church was erected on the site of the pre-existing Christian church after the earthquake of 1117. In 1444, major renovation and enlargement work took place on the Roman building, as promised by the 'Scaligeri' in the last years of their rule. Buttresses were added, as well as chapels along the building's perimeter. The influences of various different periods are visible on the facade of the building: the monumental Roman gateway with double arches by Nicolò (1139), the Gothic elements and the final, Renaissance additions. The interior is divided into three naves with pilasters in red marble, holding up ogival arches and cross-vaults with four chapels on each side and a presbytery closed off by a semi-circular door. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sarah Stevenson |
 Photo: Sven Goldhardt |
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The home of the canons |
Piazzetta San Giorgio Verona 37129 Italy |
The Porta San Giorgio opens up in front of the church of the same name in Braida. It sits within a part of the walls which substituted the Venetian boundary enhancing it with stronger bastions. It was built in 1525. The internal facade is Austrian in style with three arches, while the outside is covered in marble. The San Giorgio Bastion runs along the right hand side on via Nievo. It is an extension of a previous Venetian defence system. From the "San Giorgio breach" slightly further ahead, one can see an open space which was once used by the artillery. Even further along are the "Rondelle", or guard posts which run along the wall's Venetian and medieval sections. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andreas Vlachos |
 Photo: jacob albablank |
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Ancient church dating back to 893 |
Bardolino Verona 37011 Italy |
This small romanesque church is situated at the entrance of Bardolino, right next to the Gardesana trunk road. Don't let its size fool you! Although it is small, it is a real treasure, and very old. The name of the church appears on a document dating back to 893. The façade is made of square stones, decorated by a row of flying butresses. The interior is made up of three naves and apses; the largest is decorated by a picture of San Zeno which is worth looking at. The right-hand wall displays frescoes from the 12th century with scenes of the apocalipse, while on the left are various pictures depicting the legend of the Cross. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Three centuries of neglect |
Costabissara Via S. Zeno Verona 37011 Italy |
This church in Bardolino recieved a chaplain from the San Zeno Abbey put forward by the Abbot himself. It probably dates back to the eleventh century, when it was mentioned in a document, abandoned in the sixteenth century and then recovered again in the course of the nineteenth century. The exterior is not particularly remarkable, it is more impressive from the inside. The interior contains a single nave and six columns along the walls surmounted by Ionic capitals. The non-existent bell-tower was replaced by a bell set into the masonry. From Garda, it is a short way down the Gardesana main road, just before the Cavaion crossroads. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Antoja-Xirau |
 Photo: Giampaolo Bellavite |
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Castle bridge |
Corso Castelvecchio, 2 Verona 37121 Italy |
This is probably one of the most photographed bridges in Verona, but unfortunately it is not authentic. The original one was blown up by the Germans during the last World War, and it was reconstructed in the 1950s. It consists of a strong brick structure with three arches of decreasing width, resting on crenelated towers. The date of construction is unclear, but it was probably built between 1375 and 1376. The bridge formed part of the complicated defense structure for the Castelvecchio, and linked the city with the road leading to the Tyrol. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: LULU WANG |
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A renaissance palace |
Corso Cavour Verona 37121 Italy |
Corso Cavour is one of Verona's most attractive streets, lined with sumptuous palaces and old churches. There are also three masterpieces of Veronese architecture: Palazzo Carlotti, a splendid Baroque example, Palazzo Carnesali from the mid-16th century and last but not least, the beautiful Palazzo Scannagetti. The latter, according to the town's hisorian , Luigi Simeoni, is without a doubt, one of the few complete examples of Veronese renaissance palaces. The building today houses the botanic and prehistoric sections of the Civic museum for Natural Sciences. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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The heart of the city |
Piazza dei Signori Verona 37121 Italy |
The very noble Piazza dei Signori is the heart of Verona. Its perimeter is surrounded by historical buildings, which accentuate the important role the place has played in the city's politico-administrative spheres. On the piazza we find the Palazzo del Comune, the Palazzo del Capitanio, and the Loggia del Consiglio. The buildings are joined with elegant arches, mostly dating from the 14th century. There are wide ranges of styles, which are nevertheless characterized by great harmony. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dystopos |
 Photo: Jake Welch |
 Photo: Sebastien Rigault |
 Photo: Mario Mancuso |
 Photo: Anne Rajala |
 Photo: Juliet Rowley |
 Photo: Milan Ninkovic |
 Photo: Caroline Chandler |
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Nineteenth Century Church |
Via della Chiesa, 5 Verona 37038 Italy |
Lessinia is the hilly area just north of Verona which is well known for its green parks and delicious local produce. However, visitors to the area can also feast their eyes on the splendours of the parish church of the fortified citadel, Soave. It is one of the few nineteenth century holy buildings in Verona today. The church can be reached through Porta Verona along the road which leads to the gothic magistrate's court. Once inside, one cannot miss the sixteenth century baptistery on the left hand side. Over the first altar hangs a painting by Farinati dating back to 1542. A beautiful wood carving of "The Risen Christ" from 1533, by the Venetian Matteo Cahampsa, sits over the third altar. Around 1529, at the height of the Renaissance, Francesco Morone painted his last work of art in the presbytery, on the lunette and at the base of the altar. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Among hills and vinyards. |
Via Roma, 49 Verona 37038 Italy |
Visitors go to Soave for the wine, but not only for that reason: the heart of the historic centre is enclosed by a circular Medieval wall, in an excellent state of repair. The Tourist Information Office has information on itineraries to follow around the city (including an essential visit to the beautiful castle), as well as several routes to explore in the many surrounding areas. Among other points of interest, there are several churches and chapels which are true aesthetic gems. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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War time hospital |
Via Emilei Verona 37121 Italy |
This church was already famous as a parish in the 6th century but it was reconsecrated in 1140. In 1262 it was assigned to the Augustinian order, which began to renovate it from 1275 onwards. They made the church longer, eliminated the previous churches, and incorporated an already existing road. The exterior façade is in brickwork with two renaissance mullioned windows with two lights; it has a portal with three late Gothic statues, the central one featuring a saint, and a marble rosette. The church's interior is enormous, so much so in fact, that during wars of the Risorgimento it was used as a hospital. The church only has one nave in the form of a cross, and has seven side altars which are decorated by notable frescoes and altarpieces. The ceiling is barrel vaulted and there is a red marble baptistry dating back to the 17th century Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The piazza and the lion |
Piazza delle Erbe Verona 37121 Italy |
North of the Piazza delle Erbe, in front of the Maffei Palace, stands St Mark's Column, which was erected in 1523. It was sculpted in Veronese white marble, from a design by Michele Leoni. The lion at the top of the column is not the original. This was knocked down in 1797, when the Venetian Republic ceased to exist. This was a result of the Treaty of Campoformio in which Napoleon ceded Venice in exchange for the Duchy of Milan. The current lion was placed at the top of the column in 1866, the year of the Vienna Peace Treaty and of the plebiscites: the year which signalled the reunification of the Veneto to the rest of Italy. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tim Hendrix |
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The ex-Cathedral |
Vicolo scaletta S. Stefano, 2 Verona 37121 Italy |
This is one of the oldest churches in the city. It was built by the volition of Scaglieri in the twelfth century in the place in which Teodorico knocked down the homonymous oratory in the sixth century. It became the city's Cathedral and housed the bodies of the first Bishops of Verona. The façade is made of strips of tuff and brick adorned with writing and paintings on either side of the entrance, which date back to the late middle ages around 1500. The inside is divided by basic pillars into three naves. There is a crossed vault over the apse and the crypt dates back to the tenth century. The Chapel of the Innocent (or of the Holy Martyrs) is especially evocative. Legend has it that here there are four children buried that had been killed by Herod in Bethlehem. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A convent in a theatre |
Rigaste Redentore, 2 Verona 37121 Italy +39 45 800 0360 |
The archaeological site of the Roman theater is reached through a sixteenth century building with a frescoed freize. Nestling at the base of St. Peter's hill, the theater was probably built at the end of the first period of Roman urbanization, that is, at the end of the first century A.D, meaning that the project was carried out at the same time as the city's urban development. This affirmation is confirmed by its perfect alignment with the network of streets, to which is is a focal element. In the centuries that followed, the site was abandoned, and suffered both flood and earthquake damage, so that by the Renaissance it has already been reduced to ruins and a church and convent were actually built on the site. Archaeological excavations began in around 1757, thanks to the Abbot Fontana, and they continued into the 19th century, bringing a large part of the original structure back to light. Other excavations were carried out in the twentieth century, so that after the war the theater was used to host spectacles and events of a high artistic standard, usually in conjunction with the summer season at the Arena. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Catherine |
 Photo: Tim Hendrix |
 Photo: Ben Brown |
 Photo: nopalmtrees |
 Photo: Ben Brown |
 Photo: Mark B. Stone |
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Cemetry for the nobility |
Via delle Arche Scaligere, 1 Verona 37121 Italy |
The 'Arche Scaligere' cemetery is only visible through the fencing which encloses it. It is one of Verona's most fascinating monuments and a masterpiece of Veronese Gothic architecture. It consists of the monumental tombs of the Veronese nobility, and is closed off in an area which is adjacent to the church of Santa Maria Antica. Several of the tombs stand out on account of their imposing structures and rich decoration. Amongst these are the tombs of Cangrande I, Mastino II, Cansignorio and Alberto I. Others do not even bear the names of those who are interred within them, however, they are known to contain the remains of the likes of Bartolomeo, Alboino, Cangrande II, Mastino I and Giovanni della Scala, nephew of Bartolomeo. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Paolo Rosa |
 Photo: Paolo Rosa |
 Photo: Sophia Chu |
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Symbol of the city |
Piazza delle Erbe Verona 37121 Italy |
The fountain of Madonna Verona, which was repaired in 1368, is one of the oldest and best known fountains in the city. It is constructed in the form of a female figure, dating back to Roman times. In her hands, the statue holds a scroll bearing the emblem of the city of Verona. She is resting on a base (also of Roman origin), on which are sculpted eight masks from which the water flows. On one of these the epigraph '[Mar]morea Verona' (Verona Marble), testifies to the promise made by the Scaligieri to transform Verona's buildings. The monument was erected at the wishes of Casignorio della Scala, to celebrate the repair of the city's aqueduct. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: goandgo |
 Photo: Saverio Tribuzio |
 Photo: drop83 |
 Photo: Efren Agustin |
 Photo: didjtijn |
 Photo: Jackie C McInnes |
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A private monument |
Piazzetta di Castelvecchio Verona 37121 Italy |
The Gavi arch is located at the centre of the piazzeta del Castelvecchio: this is not its original location (which was up by the Torre degli Orologi del Castelvecchio), because it was taken down in 1805 due to structural problems, and only rebuilt in 1932, thanks to a new interest in Palladian structures. It was built in the first half of the first century A.D, by the architect Lucio Vitruvio Cerdone (whose name is carved on one of the pillars), in honor of the Gavi family. Two streets met under the four rectangular pillars: Via Postumia and another street (of which a part still remains with its large paving stones). Later it was transformed into one of the city gates: it is one of the rare examples of an honorary Roman arch dedicated to private citizens. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Enrico Miquiabas |
 Photo: Roberto Conte |
 Photo: Luisa Bruschetta |
 Photo: Rachel Weaver |
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Splendid Renaissance garden |
Via Giardino Giusti, 2 Verona 37129 Italy +39 45 803 4029 |
The Giusti Garden contains all the features of a typical Renaissance garden: geometrical layout of flowerbeds and hedgerows, fountains, grottos, mask, mythological statues, avenues of cypresses and a maze. Mozart, Goethe, kings and emperors have all visited this garden, which, for four centuries has been one of the most beautiful and well-visited in the whole of the Veneto. The garden, designed by Agostino Giusti as a setting for the villa which bears his name, is made up of three sections: a lawn, a wooded hill with a ravine and cliff and landscaped terraces with a belvedere. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Katherine Hall |
 Photo: myrsinites |
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Poet and patriot |
Piazza Santi Apostoli Verona 37121 Italy |
A monument to the Veronese poet Aleardo Aleardi (1812-1878) was erected in 1883 in the small Piazza Santi Apostoli, facing Corso Cavour. Aleardi took part in the 1848 defence of the Veneto Republic and was twice imprisoned by the Austrian authorities, once in Mantua in 1852 and a second time in Josephstadt (Bohemia) in 1859. A Romantic poet by nature, he reached the apex of his popularity with the publication of his 'Canti': many of his poems dealt with patriotic themes and as recorded on the plaque, at the base of the monument. His poems inspired feelings of patriotism in the youth of Italy, they spoke of the glory of fighting for the Motherland.' Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The syphilis doctor |
Piazza dei Signori Verona 37121 Italy |
The monument of Girolamo Fracastoro (1478-1553), is balanced on an arch in Piazza dei Signori, behind the monument of Dante. He was a doctor and man of letters from Verona. He was distinguished in many scientific disciplines, gaining popularity as a doctor, so much so that he was considered to be one of the first exponents of modern pathology. He also produced the theory of contagion based on germs and hypothesized the causes and means of infection. His most famous work is a poem dedicated to syphilis in which he christens it the "French plague" (a synonym which remains with us to this day)and for which he advised a cure based on guaiacum and mercury. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Sculptures of sorrow |
Piazzale del Cimitero, 1 Verona 37133 Italy |
The monumental cemetry was designed in 1828 by Giuseppe Barbieri in Neo-Doric style. It is square in shape, and divided by two paths which split it into four sections. The sculptures which adorn the entrance are inspired by those designed by Antonio Canova for the tomb of Pope Clement XIII. Inside, there are various examples of funereal art: the Dolci tomb (XCIX, by Ettore Ferrari), the Bertani tomb (XCVIII, by Spazzi), the Monga tomb (by Giovanni Dupre), the Tosadori tomb (XLIX, by Egidio Girelli), the Lugo monument (CXXXV, by Ettore Ferrari) and the enclosure containing the remains of those who perished in the War (by Pietro Del Fabro). Most of the tombs in the cemetery have been numbered with Roman numerals in order to make them easier to locate. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Collections of an ancient family |
Via S. Mamaso, 2a Verona 37121 Italy |
The Museum of the Miniscalchi-Erizzo Foundation is housed in the fifteenth-century palace of the same name in the Via Mamaso. It exhibits the furnishings and rich art collections of an ancient family. The fifteen rooms, containing furnishings from the sixteenth and eighteenth centuries, house numerous, varied collections. They are all organised by theme. Some of the rooms contain important archaeological finds from the Etruscan and Roman periods, including bronzes, glassware, ceramics and coins. Other rooms contain weapons and armour from the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries while in others paintings and drawings by Venetian masters of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries are displayed. The 'Portrait of Nicolò Erizzo' by Alessandro Longhi is one that particularly stands out. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Palace of the municipality |
Piazza Bra, 1 Verona 37121 Italy |
The municipality of the city of Verona has been based in the Gran Guardia Nuova Palace, in front of the Arena since 1874. The building was erected between 1835 and 1848 by Giuseppe Barbieri, on the site of the della Misericordia Hospital which was then demolished. The palace, with its colonnaded façade, was damaged during the Second World War, but was then renovated and expanded in successive years. Inside the palace, there are two paintings on cloth which were previously on display. They depict the 'Victory over Barbarossa in Vaccaldo in 1164' and the 'Victory of the Veronese over the Benacesi in '849'. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: sisde |
 Photo: Katherine Hall |
 Photo: sisde |
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The market palace |
Piazza dei Signori, 2 Verona 37121 Italy |
The peoples'palace, also called the 'Palazzo della Ragione' was built in the last decade of the 12th century, in typical Broletti style, with their surrounded courtyards where popular assemblies would be held. The palace had four angular towers, with only the Lamberti and via Cairoli towers still remaining today. In the beautiful Roman courtyard called the 'old market' as in the 15th century the cereal market would be held here. In one corner we find the 'stairs of reason in red, veronese marble, built around 1446-52 in a transitional style, somewhere between Gothic and Renaissance. The façade alternates between tuff and brickwork but the windows were altered in the 1500's and decorated with Venetian lions which were later chiselled out in 1797. Other changes were made after 1875 to adapt the building to the court of Assisi. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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The five flowered garden |
Via Cavour, 1 Verona 37067 Italy http://www.sigurta.it |
The Villa Sigurtà park is one of the most beautiful in the world. It covers half a million meters square with over seven km of track which can only be covered by car or by coach. Along the route there are 13 stop off points which correspond to themed points of interest of outstanding beauty. Five of these points of interest involve popular flowers based on the seasons, from spring to autumn: first the tulips, then irises, lilies, roses and asters. Throughout the year however the garden does see some changes, with the colors and natural scenery continually changing. The visitors, having parked their cars, are free to discover the many delights the park has to offer such as the hedges pruned in surreal shapes the broom path, the tanks of aquatic plants. Three places however, combine the beauty of nature with the sound of music: melodic sounds near to Eremo, spiritual sounds near to the votive cave and classical music in the woods. A truly memorable experience. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Francesco Castaldo |
 Photo: Salvatore Falcone |
 Photo: mooncross |
 Photo: Cristina Negrini |
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Church dedicated to the Archbishop of Canterbury |
Stradone S. Tomaso, 1 Verona 37129 Italy |
This church, begun in the first half of the 15th century and consecrated in 1504, was dedicated to the Archbishop of Canterbury by the Carmelites. The brick building has never been completed. It has a marble portal, made in 1493 by Angelo di Giovanni, who also carved the statues of the martial saints which adorn the church, and the rosette. It has a cone-shaped bell tower, with four pinacles at the side. The interior is made up of one nave, covered by trusses. The presbytery stands out as it is slightly raised and is preceded by three large arches, probably the work of Sanmicheli. The artist lived near the church and is buried in the right-hand wall. The sacresty leads into the cloisters which were once part of an Austrian barracks, also the seat of the military court for its prisons. Open: 9a-6p. Services: 6p Monday-Friday, 6p Saturday, 9a, 11a, noon, 6p Sunday. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Beautiful panoramic view |
Piazza dei Signori, 2 Verona 37121 Italy +39 45 803 2726 |
From the Torre dei Lamberti (84m high), you can enjoy one of the most beautiful panoramic views in Verona. You enter it through the courtyard of the Mercato Vecchio. You can either take a lift or climb up on foot (for which your ticket costs a little less). Work commenced on the tower (which is made from tufa and brick) in 1172; it was built in stages, and finally completed between 1448 and 1464 with the addition of an octagonal bell-tower at the top of a window with three lights. The two prinicpal bells were fitted in 1295, and have retained their historical names: 'rengo' (to call the Council and the people to a meeting) and 'marangona' (to warn people in the event of a fire). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Temple of opera |
Piazza Bra Verona 37121 Italy +39 45 800 3204 |
The Arena, located outside the city walls, is a Roman amphitheatre built in the first half of the first century A.D. It is the third largest building of its type and is the most well preserved. It has been used to host games and battles, plays in the 12th century, jousting in the Middle Ages, and in 1913, it became the largest operatic theatre in the world. The acoustics and the sheer size of the place lend themselves well to grandiose operatic performances, amongst which the performance of Giuseppe Verdi's 'Aida' is particularly famous. The interior is open to the public. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Discount card for various monuments and exhibitions |
Verona 37100 Italy +39 45 807 7774 (Comune di Verona) http://www.comune.verona.it/tu... |
The Verona card is a card, which lasts for three days and allows you to visit the city's main monuments and museums. As well as offering a discount for the largest theme park in Italy, Gardaland, Card holders also have a discount for exhibitions in the museums involved, and in the Palazzo Forti, and the Scaligeri excavations. That is not all: entrance to museums and churches is free for children under seven if accompanied by an adult, possessing a Verona Card. With the Verona Card you can visit the following monuments: Arena, torre dei Lamberti, Juliet's house, Juliet's tomb, the Roman Theatre, the lapidary museum, the Castelvecchio museum, the basilica of San Zeno, the Duomo's baptistry, and the Churches of San Lorenzo, Santa Anastasia, and San Fermo Maggiore. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Three different defensive structures |
Circonvallazione Oriani Verona 37122 Italy |
The perimeters of the city walls bear traces of the Venetian defences, which, in their turn replaced those laid down by the Scaligere. The Venetian defences were reinforced with the construction of fifteenth-century castles: San Felice and San Pietro. However, after the fall of the Venetian Republic, when the city was divided in two, the French destroyed the castles and also the southern sections of the ramparts. During the Austrian rule, Verona was transformed into an entrenched battlefield, in accordance with the wishes of the Imperial General Franz von Scholl. The walls offer an insight into three different defensive systems: Medieval, sixteenth century and nineteeth century. They can be visited by car, or by bicycle (a distance of 10km), through the streets around the circumference. They can also be visited on foot, through the remains of the ramparts, which have been turned into public gardens. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ryan & Makoli Scanlan |
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The Bishop's Palace |
Piazza Vescovado, 1 Verona 37121 Italy |
The Bishop's palace dates back to the 15th century but was built on top of already existing Roman and 14th century buildings. The entrance is via a beautiful black and white marble door which under the lunette exposes a beautiful throned Madonna, whilst to the sides and above, we find statues of Peter, Paul and Michael. On the building that runs into the Bishop's palace, a tombstone commemmorates monsignor Giovanni della Casa who conceived the idea of 'Galateo', one of the oldest treatises on social behaviour. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrea Crestani |
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A modern fortress |
Piazzale Porta Vescovo Verona 37129 Italy |
Porta del Vescovo was built in 1520 and enlarged in 1860. It sits in a heavily fortified section of the Veronese walls, within which part of the Venetian Curtain, the Maddalene bastion (1527, altered in 1848), still remains. A gateway was open here by the Austrians to link the military section of Campo Fiore to the Porta Vescovo train station and the Campo Marzo bastion (now entirely covered with vegetation). To reach it one must pass the monumental cemetery towards Porta della Vittoria Nuova (1837). Further on one crosses the embankment of the San Francesco bridge, which takes its name from the bastion along the river built by Sanmicheli in 1551. The walls, were completely rebuilt in order to fend off any siege by troops armed with fire power. They are built to withstand artillery fire and their side elevations are such that they offer no shelter to attacking infantry; on the contrary the enemy would be subject to crossfire. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Interesting History |
Corso Vittorio Emanuele, 169 Verona 37069 Italy +39 45 790 2901 |
The tourist promotions office, which in summer has an information centre in the Public library, has detailed information about the Villafranca di Verona, as well as about the main areas around it. The Villafranca settlement began in medieval times: due to its geographic position it was involved many times in the Wars of Independence. In 1866 it was host to the "quadrato" affair: the brave resistence against the Austrians by the 49° Infantry, commanded by Umberto I di Savoy. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Church containing a work by Mantegna |
Piazza S. Zeno Vicolo Abbazia, 1 Verona 37123 Italy +39 45 800 6120 |
No one going to Verona could possibly justify missing out a visit to this romanesque church which epitomises the city: S. Zeno Maggiore. On the left it is bordered by the battlemented, brick abbatial tower, on the right by the striped brick and tuff bell tower with three-mullioned windows and conic pinnacles. The church dominates the entire square. The original structure of the church dates back to 1100. It was built over pre-existing buildings. It was enlarged between 1120-1138 after the earthquake of 1117, with the addition of a tufa span on the West. At the end of the 13th century the main nave was raised higher, the roof was finished, and the apse and cloisters were rennovated. The salient façade is made of tuff, it is divided by thin pilaster strips, with a triangular pediment crossed by a gallery of mullioned windows with two lights in red marble. At the centre is the "wheel of fortune", the large rosette dating back to 1200. The portal was built by Nicolò in 1138. Scenes of Saint Zeno's life and miracles are painted in the lunette, while wooden scenes from the Old and New Testament are depicted in the 48 panels. The basilica is in the form of a Latin cross, and is divided into three naves. You can descend into the crypt down the stairs and see the mortal remains of the Saint. The main altar is decorated with a triptych by Mantegna, "Madonna Enthroned with Saints", one of the most important paintings of the Italian Renaissance. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |