Tower of the Lamberti

The Lamberti Tower, located in the heart of the historic center of Verona, rises with its 84 meters in height, dominating Piazza delle Erbe. Built in 1172 at the behest of the noble Lamberti family, the tower is a fascinating example of medieval architecture, characterized by a masonry of alternating red bricks and tuff, typical of the Romanesque style. The history of the Lamberti Tower is closely intertwined with that of Verona. Over the centuries, the tower has undergone numerous modifications and restorations. A significant event was the lightning strike that hit its top in 1403, causing serious damage. Restoration work began only in 1448 and lasted sixteen years, during which the tower was raised and equipped with an octagonal bell cell in bricks and white marble. This addition gave the tower the appearance we know today. The Lamberti Tower houses several historic bells, including the largest, the Rengo, used to summon the city council and call the army in case of emergency. The Marangona, the smallest bell, signaled fires and marked the hours of the day. These bells played a crucial role in the city’s daily life, regulating activities and alerting citizens to important events. In 1779, the renowned founder Giuseppe Ruffini added two new bells, the Rabbiosa and the hour bell, creating a harmonious harmony that completed the existing set of bells. This complex of bells rang during the historic episode of the Pasque Veronesi and has continued to mark the highlights of Verona’s history, such as the announcement of the armistice with Austria in 1918 at the end of World War I. The tower was opened to visitors in 1972, allowing them to climb to its top through a staircase of 368 steps, or more comfortably using an elevator. From the top, you can enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of Verona, with its red roofs, historic squares, characteristic alleys of the historic center, and the Adige River running through the city. On clear days, the view can extend to the Lessini Mountains, offering a breathtaking panorama that makes the climb to the tower an unforgettable experience. In addition to its historical and architectural function, the Lamberti Tower occasionally hosts special events such as bell concerts and carillon performances, adding an additional cultural and unique touch to the visit. These events allow visitors to immerse themselves in the historical atmosphere of the tower, making the visit even more fascinating.