Piazza della Minerva - Piazzas of Italy by Ultimate Italy

Piazza Erbe

Piazza Erbe is situated at the site of the Roman Forum. It lies at the heart of the city. It was the center of life in Verona in ancient times and has retained its economic importance through the ages.

The seventeenth century Palazzo Maffei is situated at the northern end. It was built at the site of the Roman Capitol and has now been converted into a posh restaurant. It has six statues from left to right. They include those of Hercules, Jupiter, Venus, Mercury, Apollo and Minerva. The city’s oldest bell tower, the Torre del Gardello lies towards the left. It was built in 1370. It is also known as Torre del Orre. The clock tower is now without its bell as its ring has been taken to the Museo di Castelvecchio.

The Colonna di San Marco is a column with a lion, the symbol of Venice at the top. It was built in 1523. Although it was pulled down after the fall of the Venetian Empire, in 1886 it was re erected with a new lion on top.

The Fontana Madonna Verona, one of the most beloved symbols of the city, is at the center of the piazza. It has been erected using many roman remains and ruins; the basin has been obtained from the hot baths of Sant Anastasia and the statue from the Capitol. In 1368 Cansignorio Della Scala added the fountain to the statue.

The Casa Mazzanti is situated at the eastern side. The Scaligeri family used this building to store grain. There is a beautiful cycle of frescoes by Cavalli dating to around 1530. These frescoes depict ignorance, good government and envy. The portico, built in 1480, is now filled with cafes, which sell gelatos and other confectionery.

The Arch della Costa is to the south of Casa Mazzanti. It leads to Piazza dei Signori and has a few stories and myths attached to its history according to the locals.

The courtyard of the Palazzo del Commune leads to the Lamberti Tower. The view from this tower is panoramic and encompasses the entire city of Verona.

Piazza Erbe is also very famous for its marketplace. In early times chariot races took place at the Forum. Then it was the center for trade in herbs, spices, coffee beans and silks. which came to Verona after landing in Venice from faraway Cathay. Currently it is the marketplace for fresh agricultural produce including tomatoes, salad greens and luscious fruits from one of Italy’s wealthiest agricultural regions. It is one of Italy’s loveliest little outdoor markets.

Café dell Erbe or Mazzanti as it is more commonly referred to by the locals is the hub of activity at all times. It offers a variety of aperitifs, appetizers and fine wines. In summer there is also the added charm of live music especially jazz.