House of Romeo

Romeo’s House, located in the historic center of Verona on Via Arche Scaligere, is a fascinating medieval structure that recalls the era and legend of the famous Shakespearean character. This building, also known as the House of the Montagues, dates back to the 13th century and represents a piece of Veronese history intertwined with literary tradition. Romeo’s House is located a short distance from the famous Juliet’s House, creating a romantic itinerary that attracts thousands of visitors every year. Unlike Juliet’s House, which is open to the public and visitable inside, Romeo’s House is not accessible to visitors but can only be admired from the outside. The building resembles a small castle, with a sturdy tower and high crenellated walls, typical elements of medieval fortified architecture. The Montague family, according to legend, lived in this dwelling, and their rivalry with the Capulets was immortalized by William Shakespeare in the tragedy “Romeo and Juliet.” Although there is no concrete historical evidence confirming the existence of Romeo and Juliet as real characters, the feud between the Montague and Capulet families was well known and documented in medieval Verona. Dante Alighieri, in his “Divine Comedy,” refers to the Montagues, indicating their historical importance and their role in the city’s struggles at the time. From an architectural point of view, Romeo’s House retains many of its original features. The structure is a well-preserved example of a medieval noble residence, with defensive elements testifying to its residential and protective function. The two-light windows, the stone portal, and the crenellated tower are all details that evoke the era in which it was built and the life that took place inside. The location of Romeo’s House, near the Scaliger Arches, the funerary complex of the powerful Della Scala family, adds an additional layer of historical and cultural interest. This neighborhood, with its narrow streets and historic buildings, offers a complete immersion in the atmosphere of medieval Verona. Although not open to the public, Romeo’s House is surrounded by an aura of mystery and romance. Visitors often stop to take photographs and imagine the events that may have taken place within its walls. Some nearby restaurants offer the opportunity to taste typical Veronese dishes, enriching the experience with local flavors and a suggestive setting.