Verona Cathedral

Robust Romanesque place of worship in fair Verona

Tucked away on a small square, the Verona Cathedral (“Duomo di Verona” / “Cattedrale di Santa Maria Matricolare”) is just a stone’s throw from the Adige river.

The 12th-century, Romanesque building is remarkable to witness. The sheer scale of the structure is immense and it casts shadows over the surrounding buildings. It’s imposing, yet it’s exterior decoration is restrained.

You’ll notice differently coloured brickwork creating a striped effect in some areas of the façade, and the entranceway is home to some frescoes. Save from this subtle ornamentation, the building’s grand size does all the talking.

The interior is another story, though. With vaulted ceilings, elaborate columns, a gilded organ and intricately painted surfaces, it’s a breathtaking sight. There’s artwork by some of the biggest Venetian names from the Italian renaissance hanging here. Notably, Veronese’s Martyrdom of Saint George.

The basilica is part of a wider complex of religious buildings which includes a monumental bell tower and simple baptistery.