Shakespeare in Verona, between History and Myth

Dear Friends of Borgo Romantico, we will meet again with our stories in 2025!

Today at Borgo Romantico Relais we will take you to a place and a story that brought romance to the entire world.
We are talking about Verona, of course, the city of Romeo and Juliet!

Before revealing the itinerary, we will reveal some curiosities about the connection between Shakespeare and Verona:
Although the drama "Romeo and Juliet" is not based on a true story, Shakespeare was inspired by pre-existing stories, including "La Giulietta" by Luigi da Porto (1530) and "Le tragiche istorie" by Matteo Bandello (1554). These stories, set in Verona, referred to rivalries between noble families; a historical phenomenon that actually existed in the city during the medieval and Renaissance periods. The struggles between factions, such as those between the Guelphs and the Ghibellines, or between families such as the Cappelletti (from which the name Capuleti derives) and the Montecchi, created a fertile context for the development of legends and tragic stories. The Scaliger Tombs, funerary monuments of the powerful families who governed Verona, still bear witness to the grandeur and rivalries of that period.

And here are our suggestions for an itinerary through alleys, squares and historic buildings that tell centuries of history, and which were the backdrop to one of the most intense love stories of all time.
Our "Romeo and Juliet" itinerary:

-Juliet's House (Via Cappello, 23): Let's start with the highlight! The famous balcony really exists (even if it is a reconstruction), and the courtyard is a riot of love messages. Don't forget to touch the breast of Juliet's statue: it is said to bring good luck in love!
-Romeo's House (Via Arche Scaligere): Less flashy, but equally evocative, Romeo's house is a private medieval building. You can't visit the inside, but it's worth walking past to imagine the young Montague plotting his secret meetings.
-Juliet's Tomb (Convent of San Francesco al Corso): A place full of melancholy, where according to legend Juliet was buried. The atmosphere is truly touching.
-The Scaliger Tombs: While you're in the area, stop by the Scaliger Tombs, funerary monuments of the powerful families who governed Verona. A dive into the city's medieval history.
-Piazza delle Erbe: The heart of Verona, a riot of colors and scents. Perfect for a coffee break or to admire the historic buildings that surround it.
-An insider tip: If you have time, also take a trip to the Roman Theater. It offers a spectacular view of the city and, during the summer, hosts theatrical performances (maybe even a few Shakespeares!).

Verona is a gem just a stone's throw from Lake Garda, an excursion I highly recommend. Whether you're a Shakespeare fan or simply looking for a different day out, Verona will win you over with its timeless charm. And let's face it, who wouldn't want to visit the city of lovers par excellence?

And if you happen to be in a group and want to experience this wonderful story live, read "Opera in Love - Romeo & Juliet". An excellent show, on request for groups, that combines Shakespeare and his Juliet with the most beautiful Opera Arias sung in the Arena.

After Shakespeare, relax on Lake Garda!
After breathing in the romantic atmosphere of Verona, what's better than returning to the tranquility of Lake Garda? At Borgo Romantico Relais we await you for a stay dedicated to relaxation, good food and good wine. Perfect for ending a day in the footsteps of Romeo and Juliet!