Renowned worldwide for the romantic tragedy of Romeo and Juliet, Verona not only boasts an extraordinary historical heritage but is also the birthplace of numerous prominent figures and the setting for the works of great writers and poets. As you stroll through its streets, you can still feel the lasting imprint of those who shaped Verona’s culture, art, and history.

Let’s get to know some of these remarkable figures and uncover the places in Verona where their legacy is still alive.

Dante Alighieri: Exile and Love for Verona

Although born in Florence, Dante Alighieri found refuge in Verona during his exile. Hosted by the Scaligeri family, the poet spent several pivotal years in Verona, working on the Divine Comedy. Dante held deep gratitude for the city and for Cangrande della Scala, to whom he dedicated the Paradiso (the final part of the Divine Comedy). Today, a statue of Dante proudly stands in Piazza dei Signori, symbolizing the mutual affection between the poet and the city.

Juliet Capulet: The Myth of Eternal Love

Although a fictional character, Juliet Capulet remains one of Verona’s most iconic symbols. Shakespeare’s tragedy immortalized her love story with Romeo, drawing millions of tourists to the city each year. Juliet’s House, with its famous balcony and the bronze statue in the courtyard, has become a symbol of romantic love and an essential part of Verona’s cultural heritage.

Cangrande della Scala: Patron of the Arts and political Leader

Lord of Verona in the 14th century, Cangrande I della Scala was not only a skilled politician and military leader, but also a great patron of the arts. He welcomed Dante to the city and helped establish Verona as a cultural and political hub in northern Italy. His tomb, one of the renowned Scaliger Tombs (Arche Scaligere), remains one of the city center’s most fascinating historical landmarks.

Paolo Veronese: The Splendor of Renaissance Art

Among the greatest painters of the Italian Renaissance, Paolo Veronese–born Paolo Caliari–came into the world in Verona in 1528. Famous for his grand frescoes and vibrant, bright paintings, he worked mainly in Venice, yet his Veronese origins remained a defining part of his identity.

In Verona, you can admire the Bevilacqua Lazise Altarpiece and a Deposition of Christ, both housed at Castelvecchio; the Marogna Altarpiece in the Church of San Paolo, located in the neighborhood where the artist was born; and the Martyrdom of Saint George altarpiece in the church bearing the same name.

Berto Barbarani: The Poet of the Veronese Dialect

A true voice of the people and an authentic symbol of late 19th-century Verona, Berto Barbarani is considered the greatest representative of poetry in the local dialect. His works, composed in vernacular, portray daily life, traditions, and the emotions of the Veronese people with both delicacy and wit. To this day, his poems are read and recited during local cultural events.

In recognition of his contributions, a statue of Barbarani stands in Piazza delle Erbe, as described in the article Discover the most authentic Verona with a walking tour.