Amarone, Valpolicella, Soave and other famous Veneto region wines are produced in the territory of the province of Verona. Even if you are coming to Verona only to go to wine regions around the town, the old town of Verona is worth a visit.
Romeo and Juliet
Verona is famous all over the world not only because of its wines, but also as the town where, according to the legend, Romeo and Juliet sad story took place. The story is only a legend but like in every legend there are element of truth with a link to the history of Verona. Shakespeare has never been to Verona. He based his famous tragedy on various versions of the same story written by Italian authours, Luigi da Porto and Matteo Bandello in particular, who wrote novels based on oral traditions from the XIV and XV centuries.
Nowadays hundred of thousands of tourists come to Verona every year to visit the places related to this legend: Romeo’s house, Juliet’s grave, Juliet’s house with the famous balcony.
The Roman Town and the Arena, the Roman Amphitheater
Verona was built by the Romans in the 2nd Century b.C. as a military camp in the center of a network of roads that crossed northern Italy from north to south and from east to west. By the beginning of the 1st Century a.D. it was a wealthy town, with lively economic and cultural activities, beautiful buildings, temples, public baths, impressive walls and gates, an amphitheater and a theater.
Many of the remains of 2000 years ago Verona can be still admired today around Verona city center but the most impressive Roman monument of Verona is the Arena, the Roman amphitheater. It is half the size of the Colosseum in Rome but is so well preserved that it is still used nowadays. Of course they do not have gladiators fight like they had in Roman time, but the Arena is today the set of a famous Opera Festival. It is held every year in Summer. From mid June until the end of August it is possible to admire inside this two thausand years old building the most famous Italian operas like the Aida, Traviata, Tosca and many others. Even those who have never seen an opera remain impressed by this magnificent show in such a unique setting.
Guided Tours in Verona
If you are coming to Verona for a wine tour don’t loose the chance to visit the old town. At Amarone Tours our guides can also take you around the old town showing you the most beautiful sights of Verona.
The typical guided tour of Verona lasts 2 hours circa and allows to see all main monuments and squares of the old city together with an experienced English speaking guide. The tour includes the Arena (Roman Amphitheater), Juliet’s house, Romeo’s house, Erbe’s square, the Roman theater, Signori’s square with Scala Family mausoleums and much more.
Our guides will be happy to tell you where to find cozy and tasty restaurants, wine shops, wine bars, and all you need to get the most from your staying in Verona.
Pictures, courtesy of Fondazione Arena di Verona