Table of Contents [show]

Popular

Nightlife in Verona: What to do in Verona at Night

Discover the BEST things to do in Verona at night! Find moonlit piazzas, and lose yourself in the city at an open-air club or secret jazz bar.

How to get from Verona to Lake Garda

Trying to get from Verona to Lake Garda? Get all the information you need about transportation options, travel routes, and travel tips.

The Best Pizza in Verona – MUST TRY Pizzerias

Looking for the best pizza in Verona? From Neapolitan classics to innovative toppings, uncover the hidden gems of Verona's pizza scene.

Uber is now available in Verona

The world's most popular ride-share app is now available in Verona! Read inside on the launch of Uber in the Verona market.

New Tourist Tax Structure in Verona

Learn how Verona's new tourist tax rates and regulations aim to incentivize tourists to stay in the city longer!

News

Visit Verona’s Museums during the Holiday Season

Experience Verona's holiday season with a visit to its museums. Explore the iconic Arena, the Gothic monuments of Arche Scaligere, and the enchanting Juliet's House.

The Comet Star Returns to Verona

Discover Verona's iconic comet star as it makes a comeback to Piazza Bra! Learn about its history and importance in Verona's festive season.

Verona named the “International City of Vine and Wine”

Discover Verona - the city honored as the International City of Vine and Wine. Explore its rich historical and cultural ties to the wine industry.

2025 Opera Festival at the Verona Arena Lineup Released

The 2025 Arena di Verona Opera Festival is set...

Vinitaly.USA 2024: Italian Sparkling Wines Overtake French Wines

In the U.S., Italian sparkling wines have overtaken French...

What to Do

2025 Opera Festival at the Verona Arena Lineup Released

The 2025 Arena di Verona Opera Festival is set...

Fotografia al Buio: Photography by Verona’s Visually Impaired

From October 4 to 31, the Agsm Aim customer...

September 9th: Soave Wine Tasting Event at Castelvecchio

Experience the magic of Soave wine in Verona. Join us for a tasting event featuring the best wines from the historic Veneto region!

Two Archaeological Tours in Verona this Weekend

Discover the secrets of Verona's underground with archaeological tours. Explore the history and hidden treasures in this captivating city!

Romeo & Juliet’s Balcony in Verona: The Ultimate Guide

Visit the famous Juliet's Balcony in Verona! Step into the world of Shakespeare and experience the timeless love story.

Latest

Visit Verona’s Museums during the Holiday Season

Experience Verona's holiday season with a visit to its museums. Explore the iconic Arena, the Gothic monuments of Arche Scaligere, and the enchanting Juliet's House.

The Comet Star Returns to Verona

Discover Verona's iconic comet star as it makes a comeback to Piazza Bra! Learn about its history and importance in Verona's festive season.

Verona named the “International City of Vine and Wine”

Discover Verona - the city honored as the International City of Vine and Wine. Explore its rich historical and cultural ties to the wine industry.

2025 Opera Festival at the Verona Arena Lineup Released

The 2025 Arena di Verona Opera Festival is set...

Vinitaly.USA 2024: Italian Sparkling Wines Overtake French Wines

In the U.S., Italian sparkling wines have overtaken French...

Food & Dining

Verona named the “International City of Vine and Wine”

Discover Verona - the city honored as the International City of Vine and Wine. Explore its rich historical and cultural ties to the wine industry.

Vinitaly.USA 2024: Italian Sparkling Wines Overtake French Wines

In the U.S., Italian sparkling wines have overtaken French...

Verona Women take Second and Third in Pasta Competition

The Miss Tagliatella Romagnola 2024 competition sees two Verona women take second and third place in this pasta competition!

Best Beer in Italy: Two Verona Breweries Make the List

Check out the two MVPs of Verona's craft beer scene. Try the brews from the Mastino and Laorno breweries, rated best breweries in Italy!

Lake Garda Restaurant Earns Best Italian Food in the World!

Discover the best Italian restaurant in the world, located in Lake Garda. Lido 84 combines culinary tradition with Michelin star excellence.

Verona Info

How to Get from Verona to Florence

Discover the best ways to travel from Verona to Florence, including by train, bus, car rental, and private transfer. Plan your trip with ease using our comprehensive guide.

How to get from Verona to Milan

The are the BEST ways to travel from Verona to Milan. Figure out which mode of transportation is the perfect one for you and your trip!

How to get from Verona to Lake Garda

Trying to get from Verona to Lake Garda? Get all the information you need about transportation options, travel routes, and travel tips.

How to get from Verona to Venice

Embark on an Italian adventure! Discover cost-effective tips and convenient travel options from Verona to Venice in our comprehensive guide.

Where to find Free WiFi in Verona, Italy

Discover Verona's best free WiFi spots for remote work, from cozy cafes to bustling public squares, catering to digital nomads' needs

Featured

Renowned French photographer Robert Doisneau’s retrospective on exhibition in Verona

An extraordinary photography exhibition in Verona, curated by Gabriel Bauret, celebrates the legacy of French photographer Robert Doisneau. The retrospective showcases 135 monochrome images from his illustrious career, including the iconic “Le Baiser de l’Hôtel de Ville, Paris, 1950.” The exhibit runs until February 14th at the Palazzo della Gran Guardia.

The Best Bruschetta in Verona: Bruschetteria Redoro

Bruschetteria Redoro in Verona, Italy, offers a cozy ambiance and authentic Italian cuisine. With delightful bruschettas, and a superb wine selection, it's a culinary gem. Friendly service and a homey atmosphere make it a must-visit for Italian food enthusiasts.

The History of the Verona Arena: Unveiling a Timeless Stage

Verona's Arena: More than just an amphitheatre. 2,000 years echo in its stones - gladiatorial blood, hushed whispers, operatic roars. Unravel its journey from Roman spectacle to modern marvel. Prepare to stand where history unfolds.

Verona Introduces IMUV Card for Residents

Starting February 1st, "My IMUV card" grants you unlimited access to Verona's Civic Museums (except Juliet's House) for a whole year. This handy card, priced at only 12 euros, unlocks the doors to fascinating cultural experiences like the Roman Arena, Castelvecchio Museum, and the Natural History Museum.

Getting Around Verona: Ultimate Guide to Traveling Like a Local

This guide to getting around Verona unlocks the secrets to seeing the city like a local, giving you more time to indulge in its charm!

Where to Stay

The BEST Hotels in Verona, Italy: The Ultimate Guide

Planning a trip to Verona? Read our guide to the best hotels in Verona, offering a blend of historic, luxury, and central locations.

The BEST Hostels in Verona: Top-Tier Accommodations

Explore the best hostels in Verona, each offering unique charm, comfort, and unbeatable locations. Read our guide to find your ideal stay!

Where to stay in Verona: The City’s BEST Neighborhoods!

Discover where to stay in Verona and explore its diverse neighborhoods, from the historic city center to the tranquil beauty of San Zeno.

Don't Miss

Renowned French photographer Robert Doisneau’s retrospective on exhibition in Verona

An extraordinary photography exhibition in Verona, curated by Gabriel Bauret, celebrates the legacy of French photographer Robert Doisneau. The retrospective showcases 135 monochrome images from his illustrious career, including the iconic “Le Baiser de l’Hôtel de Ville, Paris, 1950.” The exhibit runs until February 14th at the Palazzo della Gran Guardia.

The Best Bruschetta in Verona: Bruschetteria Redoro

Bruschetteria Redoro in Verona, Italy, offers a cozy ambiance and authentic Italian cuisine. With delightful bruschettas, and a superb wine selection, it's a culinary gem. Friendly service and a homey atmosphere make it a must-visit for Italian food enthusiasts.

The History of the Verona Arena: Unveiling a Timeless Stage

Verona's Arena: More than just an amphitheatre. 2,000 years echo in its stones - gladiatorial blood, hushed whispers, operatic roars. Unravel its journey from Roman spectacle to modern marvel. Prepare to stand where history unfolds.

Verona Introduces IMUV Card for Residents

Starting February 1st, "My IMUV card" grants you unlimited access to Verona's Civic Museums (except Juliet's House) for a whole year. This handy card, priced at only 12 euros, unlocks the doors to fascinating cultural experiences like the Roman Arena, Castelvecchio Museum, and the Natural History Museum.

Getting Around Verona: Ultimate Guide to Traveling Like a Local

This guide to getting around Verona unlocks the secrets to seeing the city like a local, giving you more time to indulge in its charm!

Table of Contents [show]

Popular

Nightlife in Verona: What to do in Verona at Night

Discover the BEST things to do in Verona at night! Find moonlit piazzas, and lose yourself in the city at an open-air club or secret jazz bar.

How to get from Verona to Lake Garda

Trying to get from Verona to Lake Garda? Get all the information you need about transportation options, travel routes, and travel tips.

The Best Pizza in Verona – MUST TRY Pizzerias

Looking for the best pizza in Verona? From Neapolitan classics to innovative toppings, uncover the hidden gems of Verona's pizza scene.

Uber is now available in Verona

The world's most popular ride-share app is now available in Verona! Read inside on the launch of Uber in the Verona market.

New Tourist Tax Structure in Verona

Learn how Verona's new tourist tax rates and regulations aim to incentivize tourists to stay in the city longer!

News

Visit Verona’s Museums during the Holiday Season

Experience Verona's holiday season with a visit to its museums. Explore the iconic Arena, the Gothic monuments of Arche Scaligere, and the enchanting Juliet's House.

The Comet Star Returns to Verona

Discover Verona's iconic comet star as it makes a comeback to Piazza Bra! Learn about its history and importance in Verona's festive season.

Verona named the “International City of Vine and Wine”

Discover Verona - the city honored as the International City of Vine and Wine. Explore its rich historical and cultural ties to the wine industry.

2025 Opera Festival at the Verona Arena Lineup Released

The 2025 Arena di Verona Opera Festival is set...

Vinitaly.USA 2024: Italian Sparkling Wines Overtake French Wines

In the U.S., Italian sparkling wines have overtaken French...

What to Do

2025 Opera Festival at the Verona Arena Lineup Released

The 2025 Arena di Verona Opera Festival is set...

Fotografia al Buio: Photography by Verona’s Visually Impaired

From October 4 to 31, the Agsm Aim customer...

September 9th: Soave Wine Tasting Event at Castelvecchio

Experience the magic of Soave wine in Verona. Join us for a tasting event featuring the best wines from the historic Veneto region!

Two Archaeological Tours in Verona this Weekend

Discover the secrets of Verona's underground with archaeological tours. Explore the history and hidden treasures in this captivating city!

Romeo & Juliet’s Balcony in Verona: The Ultimate Guide

Visit the famous Juliet's Balcony in Verona! Step into the world of Shakespeare and experience the timeless love story.

Latest

Visit Verona’s Museums during the Holiday Season

Experience Verona's holiday season with a visit to its museums. Explore the iconic Arena, the Gothic monuments of Arche Scaligere, and the enchanting Juliet's House.

The Comet Star Returns to Verona

Discover Verona's iconic comet star as it makes a comeback to Piazza Bra! Learn about its history and importance in Verona's festive season.

Verona named the “International City of Vine and Wine”

Discover Verona - the city honored as the International City of Vine and Wine. Explore its rich historical and cultural ties to the wine industry.

2025 Opera Festival at the Verona Arena Lineup Released

The 2025 Arena di Verona Opera Festival is set...

Vinitaly.USA 2024: Italian Sparkling Wines Overtake French Wines

In the U.S., Italian sparkling wines have overtaken French...

Food & Dining

Verona named the “International City of Vine and Wine”

Discover Verona - the city honored as the International City of Vine and Wine. Explore its rich historical and cultural ties to the wine industry.

Vinitaly.USA 2024: Italian Sparkling Wines Overtake French Wines

In the U.S., Italian sparkling wines have overtaken French...

Verona Women take Second and Third in Pasta Competition

The Miss Tagliatella Romagnola 2024 competition sees two Verona women take second and third place in this pasta competition!

Best Beer in Italy: Two Verona Breweries Make the List

Check out the two MVPs of Verona's craft beer scene. Try the brews from the Mastino and Laorno breweries, rated best breweries in Italy!

Lake Garda Restaurant Earns Best Italian Food in the World!

Discover the best Italian restaurant in the world, located in Lake Garda. Lido 84 combines culinary tradition with Michelin star excellence.

Verona Info

How to Get from Verona to Florence

Discover the best ways to travel from Verona to Florence, including by train, bus, car rental, and private transfer. Plan your trip with ease using our comprehensive guide.

How to get from Verona to Milan

The are the BEST ways to travel from Verona to Milan. Figure out which mode of transportation is the perfect one for you and your trip!

How to get from Verona to Lake Garda

Trying to get from Verona to Lake Garda? Get all the information you need about transportation options, travel routes, and travel tips.

How to get from Verona to Venice

Embark on an Italian adventure! Discover cost-effective tips and convenient travel options from Verona to Venice in our comprehensive guide.

Where to find Free WiFi in Verona, Italy

Discover Verona's best free WiFi spots for remote work, from cozy cafes to bustling public squares, catering to digital nomads' needs

Featured

Renowned French photographer Robert Doisneau’s retrospective on exhibition in Verona

An extraordinary photography exhibition in Verona, curated by Gabriel Bauret, celebrates the legacy of French photographer Robert Doisneau. The retrospective showcases 135 monochrome images from his illustrious career, including the iconic “Le Baiser de l’Hôtel de Ville, Paris, 1950.” The exhibit runs until February 14th at the Palazzo della Gran Guardia.

The Best Bruschetta in Verona: Bruschetteria Redoro

Bruschetteria Redoro in Verona, Italy, offers a cozy ambiance and authentic Italian cuisine. With delightful bruschettas, and a superb wine selection, it's a culinary gem. Friendly service and a homey atmosphere make it a must-visit for Italian food enthusiasts.

The History of the Verona Arena: Unveiling a Timeless Stage

Verona's Arena: More than just an amphitheatre. 2,000 years echo in its stones - gladiatorial blood, hushed whispers, operatic roars. Unravel its journey from Roman spectacle to modern marvel. Prepare to stand where history unfolds.

Verona Introduces IMUV Card for Residents

Starting February 1st, "My IMUV card" grants you unlimited access to Verona's Civic Museums (except Juliet's House) for a whole year. This handy card, priced at only 12 euros, unlocks the doors to fascinating cultural experiences like the Roman Arena, Castelvecchio Museum, and the Natural History Museum.

Getting Around Verona: Ultimate Guide to Traveling Like a Local

This guide to getting around Verona unlocks the secrets to seeing the city like a local, giving you more time to indulge in its charm!

Where to Stay

The BEST Hotels in Verona, Italy: The Ultimate Guide

Planning a trip to Verona? Read our guide to the best hotels in Verona, offering a blend of historic, luxury, and central locations.

The BEST Hostels in Verona: Top-Tier Accommodations

Explore the best hostels in Verona, each offering unique charm, comfort, and unbeatable locations. Read our guide to find your ideal stay!

Where to stay in Verona: The City’s BEST Neighborhoods!

Discover where to stay in Verona and explore its diverse neighborhoods, from the historic city center to the tranquil beauty of San Zeno.

Don't Miss

Renowned French photographer Robert Doisneau’s retrospective on exhibition in Verona

An extraordinary photography exhibition in Verona, curated by Gabriel Bauret, celebrates the legacy of French photographer Robert Doisneau. The retrospective showcases 135 monochrome images from his illustrious career, including the iconic “Le Baiser de l’Hôtel de Ville, Paris, 1950.” The exhibit runs until February 14th at the Palazzo della Gran Guardia.

The Best Bruschetta in Verona: Bruschetteria Redoro

Bruschetteria Redoro in Verona, Italy, offers a cozy ambiance and authentic Italian cuisine. With delightful bruschettas, and a superb wine selection, it's a culinary gem. Friendly service and a homey atmosphere make it a must-visit for Italian food enthusiasts.

The History of the Verona Arena: Unveiling a Timeless Stage

Verona's Arena: More than just an amphitheatre. 2,000 years echo in its stones - gladiatorial blood, hushed whispers, operatic roars. Unravel its journey from Roman spectacle to modern marvel. Prepare to stand where history unfolds.

Verona Introduces IMUV Card for Residents

Starting February 1st, "My IMUV card" grants you unlimited access to Verona's Civic Museums (except Juliet's House) for a whole year. This handy card, priced at only 12 euros, unlocks the doors to fascinating cultural experiences like the Roman Arena, Castelvecchio Museum, and the Natural History Museum.

Getting Around Verona: Ultimate Guide to Traveling Like a Local

This guide to getting around Verona unlocks the secrets to seeing the city like a local, giving you more time to indulge in its charm!

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Thursday, January 9, 2025

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The History of Verona: From Gauls to Glamour

Verona, Italy, isn’t just about Shakespearean romance and operatic arias. This enchanting city boasts a history as rich and layered as its tiramisu. This is Verona, a living museum where every cobblestone narrates a chapter in its 2,500-year-old story. Prepare to delve into a journey through time, where we’ll meet emperors, tyrants, and tragic lovers amidst a backdrop of empires rising and falling like curtains on a stage. Buckle up, history buffs and romantics alike, because we’re about to explore the captivating story of the history of Verona! And let’s be clear here: We’re giving you the history book highlight reel, because with a city thousands of years old, there’s no way to cover it all!

Born by the River, Forged by Empires (6th Century BC – 5th Century AD)

the Verona Arena with tourists walking by
The famous Roman Verona Arena, a core focal point in the history of Verona

Imagine a bustling trading post by the Adige River, inhabited by the mysterious Euganei tribe. In the 6th century BC, they were swept away by the Gauls, who renamed the settlement “Verona.” Fast forward to 89 BC, and Julius Caesar himself arrived, transforming Verona into a Roman colony. Think impressive amphitheaters, bustling forum, and legions marching through cobbled streets. In fact, the famous Verona Arena (or Verona Amphitheater) was built in 50 BC, making it even older than the Roman Coliseum, AND it’s still in use today! The poet Catullus was even born here, channeling his love for Verona into timeless verses.

In fact, besides the famed Arena, there’s still many original Roman structures and construction still standing in use to this day. The Roman Theatre of Verona was built during the first century AD, however it fell into disrepair. In the 8th century a wealthy citizen by the name of Andrea Monga essentially bought the theatre to remove all the construction done over the site, and restore it to its former glory. As you walk through Verona you’ll also notice the Porta Bosari, a gate in the old Roman city walls, as well as the Porta Leoni, the Arco dei Gavi, and many original Roman features still in use over 2,000 years later.

Of course, we all know that nothing gold can last. By 300 AD Rome was beginning to fracture and come under attacks from outside states, and by the year 500 AD, ancient Rome had collapsed. Verona was no longer a Roman city, and power over the city was changing hands. Enter the Germanic tribes, like the Ostrogoths, who swept in during the 5th century AD. Think not of barbarians, but of a vibrant exchange of ideas, where Roman structures now mingle with Gothic influences. Verona remained a crucial crossroads, witnessing clashes of power and cultural exchange. Think of it as the “Game of Thrones” of its time, but with less dragons and more togas.

Medieval Mayhem: Feuds, Scaligers, and a Star-Crossed Tragedy (5th Century AD – 15th Century AD)

the balcony of Juliet at Casa di Giulietta in Verona, Italy
The famous Balcony of Juliet

This should come as exactly zero surprise but… the Middle Ages in Verona were anything but peaceful. The city became a pawn between powerful families vying for control. The feuds were as dramatic as any Shakespearean play, with alliances shifting like sands in the desert. In the midst of this chaos, rise the Scaligers, a dynasty that leaves an indelible mark on the city’s soul. From the 13th to the 15th centuries, they rule with an iron fist, their towering castles (Castelvecchio and Scaligero) standing as imposing testaments to their power. They patronize the arts – Dante himself finds refuge here! – and transform Verona into a cultural hub. Yet, their reign is not without its darkness, as whispered tales of intrigue and bloodshed weave through the city’s fabric.

Speaking of Shakespeare, it’s during this period that the legend of Romeo and Juliet is said to have unfolded. While historians debate the historical accuracy, the legend of their star-crossed love, immortalized by Shakespeare, remains deeply embedded in Verona’s identity. From their supposed tombs to the charming Casa di Giulietta, their tragic tale continues to resonate with hearts worldwide, adding a touch of melancholy romance to the city’s atmosphere.

The most famous structure still standing and in use from the medieval period of Verona’s history has to be the Basilica of San Zeno. It was constructed over a 4th century shrine to St. Zeno, the patron saint of Verona, and it’s bell tower is even mentioned by Dante in Divine Comedy. However, despite religious significance, much of it’s fame comes from the tradition that it was the true marriage place of Romeo and Juliet! (Have you noticed how much of the history of Verona keeps circling back to a couple teenagers in love?)

Venetian Velvet and Napoleonic Turmoil (15th Century AD – 19th Century AD)

In the 15th century, the mighty Venetian Republic swept in, bringing a period of relative stability and artistic flourish to the history of Verona. Imagine ornate palaces lining the streets, the Grand Canal replaced by the Adige, and gondolas replaced by…well, horses probably. Venice nurtured trade and the arts, making Verona a cultural gem. Think Renaissance masters like Veronese painting their masterpieces while sipping on local Bardolino wine.

Verona changed hands several times during this period. Emperor Maximillian I (who ruled from 1490-1516 AD), desperately tried to make Verona the capital of the Italian sector of his German kingdom. However, with the Treaty of Brussels in 1516, Maximillian gifted the city of Verona to his grandson (what a generous gift, we might add), Charles V of Spain. Charles then gave Verona to France, who finally returned it back to Venice. This is when Venice made most of it’s investments and improvements to the city, as they saw Verona as a stronghold in mainland Italy. Verona’s population rose to 55,000 people, a significant size for it’s time, before a plague in 1630 AD reduced it to nearly 20,000 inhabitants.

Napoleon, history’s self-proclaimed emperor, marched in during the 18th century, disrupting the Venetian reign. Verona played a key role in the Napoleonic Wars, its mighty fortifications resisting his advances. Imagine cannons booming, soldiers clashing, and the city holding its breath for victory. Eventually, on Easter Monday in 1797, the people of Verona itself rose up and drove Napoleon and the French out of the city. This caused Napoleon to sign a treaty dissolving the Venetian Republic, which passed Verona over to the Austrians. However, in 1805, Verona was returned to Napoleon as part of his Kingdom of Italy… only to return back to the Austrians in 1814 with Napoleons defeat.

Modern Verona History (19th Century – Present Day)

sunset view of verona today
Despite it’s turbulent history, Verona has survived to become one of the most beautiful cities on earth.

The 19th century saw a surge of Italian nationalism, with Verona participating in the unification movement known as the Risorgimento. Think passionate speeches, daring uprisings, and finally, in 1866, Verona joining the newly formed Kingdom of Italy. The city embraced its modern identity, developing industries while holding onto its rich heritage. Since then, the history of Verona has been much, MUCH, more stable. Italy has remained mostly unified with only small territory changes over the last 150 years, becoming what we now understand as Italy in 1946. And now Verona stands as one of the most iconic cities in one of the most culturally impactful cities in the world. Thanks to Romeo & Juliet, no matter how true the story may be, nearly everyone knows a little bit about the City of Love.

Today, Verona pulsates with life. Tourists flock to see the iconic Arena, home to world-renowned opera performances under the stars. Foodies devour pasta dishes on charming piazzas, while history buffs wander through Roman ruins and medieval alleyways. The city retains its romantic charm, offering a glimpse into its captivating past while embracing its dynamic present. The history of Verona is a topic with endless rabbit holes to truly understand how the city came to be what it is today.

Travel Verona
Travel Verona
We're just a couple passionately sharing our experiences and expertise in the City of Love, a city so full of hidden gems and rich history. When we're not crafting blog posts, you'll find us sipping espresso in a sunny piazza or walking by the Adige River.

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