Verona     The first recognition most people have of the city of Verona is as the setting of Shakespeare's tragic love story, Romeo and Juliet. What many don't know is that the story really does have its origins in Verona. In the 13th century, there was a very public feud between two of the cities' more prominent families. Whether or not these families had children who fell in love with one another is speculative, but Da Porto and Della Corte did produce a play about the tragic pair in the 16th century, a number of years before Shakespeare's duo took to the Elizabethan stage.
The city of Verona has taken the theme of their romance to heart: a Romeo and Juliet tour leads through the winding streets, passing old brick homes and arriving at an ancient convent just outside the city's walls, wherein lies an empty sarcophagus of red marble. The lonely resting place serves to remind of the toll hatred and animosity can take, and to urge us all to strive toward love and peace.
Love and peace are goals that Verona has successfully achieved. Of course, being surrounded by the natural beauty of Lake Gardo and the River Adige, Monte Baldo, and the Lessinia hills, this ancient city can't help but salve the soul.
Of course, there are other soul soothing offerings as well. The Arena, an ancient Roman Amphitheater, still functions as a gathering place for visitors and locals alike, holding festivals, celebrations, and exquisite performances by world renowned symphonies and opera masters, including Luciano Pavarotti and Placido Domingo. And Verona's many museums and art galleries exhibit both period pieces and contemporary works, paying homage to the past while forging its unique identity.
Verona has been a gracious host to many visitors since its founding in 49 BC by the Publilia tribe. Since its beginnings, the city has been led by many hands. Roman leaders found refuge and rest within its beautiful gates, the Portos Bosari and Leona. Later Theodoric, King of the Ostrogoths, made Verona his home, as have Charlemagne and his son King Pepin, and even Napoleon.
Throughout its long and varied history, Verona's citizens have maintained their own special sensibilities, adapting to various cultural influences, including the Hungarians, the Germans, and the Austrians. Finally in 1866, Verona voluntarily became part of Italy, settling on that nationality, but still welcoming the world to enjoy the thriving little city within its walls.
Perhaps living amid such beauty is the cornerstone to their inviting disposition. Whatever the cause, the people of Verona take pride in their little metropolis, ensuring the quality of their institutions, celebrations, and cultural offerings. And they love sharing their home with all peoples.

Verona - City of Art and History