Verona is an Italian city that bestrides the Adige River in Veneto, northern Italy. It is one of the 7 special administrative cities in northern Italy and one of the most popular tourists’ destinations in Italy- mainly due to its artistic heritage, several annual fairs, shows, and operas.

Below are a few things you need to know about the city before you make your visit.

1. It is a UNESCO listed World Heritage Site

Due to its ancient architectural designs and artistic heritage, the city of Verona is a World Heritage Site. You are well advised to visit the city and see some of these buildings and artworks in the museums.

2. A history lesson

No one knows how the city was established or how it came to be known as Verona. One theory is that upon the conquer of Po Valley by the Romans in 300BC, it became a Roman territory and later in the 89 BC, it became a Roman Colonia. The city however rose in prominence when Stilicho defeated Alaric and his Visigoths here in 403. The Visigoths would later be conquered by the Ostrogoths in year 489 and the Gothic reign over Italy began. It is said that the city of Verona is named after a palace built by Theodoric the Great. The city would also see reign by Lombards after the Goths surrendered it. If you did not know, Lombards are the present day Italians.

3. Climate

The city boasts a subtropical climate that is characterized with hot summers and cold, humid winters. It also experiences some quasi-Mediterranean weather due to the influence of Lake Gardia. May to September are the best months to visit the city because the temperature is great for outdoor activities.

4. Attractions in the city

Whenever you are visiting the city, these are the must see, must visit attractions: Cathedral of Verona, San Zeno church, Piazza delle Erbe, Castelvecchio and the Scaligero bridges and many more.

5. Cuisines in Verona

Among the top delicacies renowned worldwide that have their roots in the city include; peperita which is made of boiled beef with a peppered cheese sauce; pastisada de caval stew made of horse meat; and paparele which is homemade pasta with peas and beans. For wines, you can try the ever popular DOC wines such as Bardolino or the Valpolicella.

Now that you know what you will be missing if you do not make it to Verona, why not put it on your itinerary of north Italy tour?