Verona historic center

Verona's historic center spreads across narrow streets and spacious squares, containing buildings that span Roman, Medieval, and Renaissance eras, all enclosed within protective walls. The old town preserves its original layout with tight passageways, expansive piazzas, and several important monuments like the Roman theater and the stone amphitheater built over centuries.

The Romans established the settlement and built the stone amphitheater in the first century. During the Middle Ages, the city became fortified and experienced its greatest flowering under the rule of the Della Scala family, who left behind magnificent buildings and artworks.

The Arena transforms into an open-air theater each summer, hosting large-scale opera performances and concerts that draw audiences from across Europe.

Walking is the best way to explore, as the streets are narrow and mostly car-free. Comfortable footwear is important due to the cobblestone paths, and arriving early in the morning helps you avoid the largest crowds.

Piazza delle Erbe has served as a marketplace for thousands of years and remains surrounded by buildings decorated with ancient frescoes. Vendors and merchants continue to use the square today much as they did in Roman times, creating a living link to the past.