Square of Herbs

Piazza delle Erbe in Verona is one of the oldest and most fascinating squares in Italy, located in the heart of the city’s historic center. Its origins date back to Roman times, when the area housed the forum, the nerve center of political, economic, and social life. Over the centuries, Piazza delle Erbe has undergone numerous transformations, always maintaining a central role in city life. During the medieval period, the square changed shape from rectangular to rhomboidal, but continued to be the hub of commerce and social activities in Verona. The trading of spices, herbs, and other goods took place daily, helping to keep the city’s economy vibrant. The square was animated by a lively market, which is still one of the main attractions today, with stalls selling fruits, vegetables, souvenirs, and local products. The architecture of the square is a true collage of different styles and eras, testifying to Verona’s rich history. Among the most notable buildings is the Domus Mercatorum, built in 1301 by the Scaligeri as the headquarters of the guilds of arts and crafts. This medieval building, with its fortress-like appearance, has been transformed several times over the centuries, still maintaining its role as a reference point for the city’s commerce. The eastern side of the square is dominated by the Palazzo del Comune, a thirteenth-century building that was for centuries the center of Verona’s political power. Overlooked by the Lamberti Tower, built in 1172, it offers an unparalleled panoramic view of the city from its top, accessible by a convenient elevator. Next to the palace are the Mazzanti Houses, one of the oldest buildings in Verona, which still retain vibrant sixteenth-century mythological frescoes on their facades. On the north side of the square, the baroque Palazzo Maffei, dating back to the seventeenth century, stands out for its sophisticated architecture on three floors, with a splendid balcony topped by statues. Next to it, the Gardello Tower, with its mechanical bell clock, is one of the oldest examples of this type in Europe. In the center of the square stands the Fountain of Madonna Verona, erected in 1368, with a Roman statue from the 1st century AD allegorically representing the city. This monument was commissioned by Cansignorio della Scala, lord of Verona, who used a red Veronese marble Roman thermal bath. Another central structure is the Capitello, a thirteenth-century marble canopy used for public ceremonies and oaths. The square also houses the Column of San Marco, erected in 1523 and topped by the winged lion, symbol of the Republic of Venice. This monument represents the Venetian influence on Verona, which lasted for over four centuries.