Piazza delle Erbe

Piazza delle Erbe is a living museum that perfectly encapsulates the layered history of Verona. Originally the Roman Forum, it has been the center of political and economic life in the city for over two millennia. Today, the square is framed by a spectacular array of buildings from different eras. The northern end is dominated by the ancient Town Hall, the Torre dei Lamberti, and the Casa dei Giudici. The western side features the Baroque Palazzo Maffei, adorned with statues of Greek gods, and the frescoed Case dei Mazzanti, which hint at Verona's past nickname as 'urbs picta' (the painted city).

In the center of the square stands the Berlina, a 16th-century canopy once used for the investiture of city officials, and the iconic Madonna Verona fountain. The fountain's statue is a Roman sculpture dating back to 380 AD, repurposed in the 14th century. Whether you are browsing the market stalls for Venetian masks and fresh fruit, or sipping an espresso at a sidewalk cafe while admiring the winged lion of St. Mark atop its column, Piazza delle Erbe offers an immersive and unforgettable Italian experience.

Reasons to Visit

• Experience the oldest and most historically significant square in Verona.
• Admire the stunning, well-preserved Renaissance frescoes on the Mazzanti Houses.
• Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the daily market selling local goods and fresh produce.
• Relax at a historic cafe and partake in the Italian tradition of the aperitivo.
• Access the Torre dei Lamberti for the best panoramic views of the city.

Things to Avoid

• Avoid eating at restaurants directly on the square if you are on a strict budget, as prices are marked up for the location.
• Be cautious of buying overly commercialized souvenirs at the market; look for authentic local crafts instead.
• Avoid visiting during the peak midday heat in summer, as the square offers limited shade.

Local Transportation Tips

Piazza delle Erbe is located in the heart of Verona's historic center, which is a Restricted Traffic Zone (ZTL). The best way to reach the square is on foot. It is a pleasant 15-20 minute walk from the Verona Porta Nuova train station, or a short stroll from other major attractions like Juliet's House and the Verona Arena. Local buses stop at nearby Piazza Bra, from which it is a 5-minute walk.

Travel Etiquette

• Dress modestly if you plan to visit nearby churches after exploring the square.
• Do not sit on the historic monuments or the edges of the Madonna Verona fountain.
• When ordering coffee, remember that sitting at a table costs significantly more than standing at the bar.
• Always greet shopkeepers with a polite 'Buongiorno' or 'Buonasera' before browsing.

Recommended Age Group

Piazza delle Erbe is a versatile destination that appeals to visitors of all ages, offering a mix of visual splendor, open space, and accessible amenities.

• Babies (0-2 years): Recommended. The square is mostly flat and paved, making it accessible for strollers, though it can get crowded during peak hours.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. Children will enjoy the open space, the colorful market stalls, and the abundance of nearby gelato shops.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. The vibrant atmosphere and stunning architecture provide excellent photo opportunities and a lively environment.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. Perfect for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and those looking to enjoy local food and wine at the surrounding cafes.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. The area is flat and easy to navigate, with plenty of seating available at cafes to rest and people-watch.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• The square is generally flat and paved with stone, making it accessible for wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
• Some of the older cafes and shops surrounding the square may have a small step at the entrance.
• The nearby Torre dei Lamberti has an elevator, though there are a few steps to reach the very top viewing platform.
• Accessible public restrooms can be found in nearby museums and larger restaurants.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the statue crowning the Madonna Verona fountain in the center of the square is actually a Roman sculpture from the 4th century? It originally lacked a head and arms, which were added in the 14th century when the fountain was constructed by Cansignorio della Scala.

Cool Statistics

• The square sits exactly on the site of the original Roman Forum from over 2,000 years ago.
• The Torre dei Lamberti, towering over the square, is 84 meters (275 feet) tall.
• The Madonna Verona fountain was built in 1368 to celebrate the restoration of the city's aqueduct.
• The column of St. Mark was erected in 1523 to symbolize the Republic of Venice's dominance over Verona.