Piazza delle Erbe
About
Piazza delle Erbe is the historic heart of Verona, once the vibrant Roman forum of the city and today a bustling market square that never fails to capture the imagination of visitors. In the heart of the piazza stands the 14th‑century Fountain of Madonna Verona, crowned by the ancient Roman sculpture of Madonna Verona, and the iconic St. Mark’s Lion, a symbol of Venice’s former influence over the region. Surrounding the square are architectural gems such as the medieval Torre dei Lamberti, the elegant Palazzo Maffei, the Casa dei Mercanti (now the seat of Banca Popolare di Verona) and a collection of fresco‑plastered façades that narrate Verona’s storied past. From dawn until dusk the square is alive with vendors selling fresh produce, handmade crafts, local cheeses and regional wines, making it a must‑visit for food lovers, history enthusiasts and families alike.
Good to Know
Best time to visit
The best times to explore Piazza delle Erbe are late March to May and September to early November, when the weather is pleasant and crowds are thinner, allowing you to soak in the square’s historic charm without the peak‑season throngs.
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes