11 Unusual Things To Do And See In Verona

This northern Italian city is now home not just to Veronese old-timers, but also all kinds of students, artists, young professionals and immigrants from across the globe. For those who want to go off the sugary, beaten path of Romeo and Juliet, our guide to the city will take you through everything from ancient curiosities to hip young spaces for contemporary cultural ferment.

San Zeno Flea Market

Come by Piazza San Zeno on Sundays and you’ll find a real cornucopia of knick-knacks to pleasurably browse through. Old postcards, secondhand clothing, used books and home furnishings will be piled high in the vendors’ stalls. You’ll enjoy chatting with the zany local characters who populate these events, and discover treasures like Moroccan lamps and Murano glass jewelry for good prices.

Arco della Costa

In the heart of Verona, along the arch that leads out of the Piazza delle Erbe towards the Piazza dei Signori, there is a whale rib mysteriously hanging from a chain under one of the arches. Its history goes back at least three centuries and perhaps more. Though there’s a few different theories as to why it got there, its origin story is unclear. It could be a relic brought back from the Crusades, a fossil taken from the mountains, or a dramatic piece of advertisement for the old pharmacy located underneath. The legend goes that this bone will fall on the first person to pass under it who has never told a lie, so feel free to test the theory.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BPYLLosB2NO

1. Church of Sante Teuteria e Tosca

Church

Hidden in the basement of a church called ciSanti Apostoli, this little-known chapel dedicated to the Saints Teuteria and Tosca was consecrated back in the 8th century, making it the oldest church in the Veneto. It’s a small, dark space full of the kind of beauty that only accumulates with the passing centuries.

2. Circolo del Cinema

Cinema

Leave your 3-D glasses at home; this is a place for serious film fans to watch a well-curated selection of movies from all over the world. Founded in 1947, the Circolo has been running for 70 straight seasons. With a subscription, you can also take part in the encounters with filmmakers and various workshops.