It takes two hours to visit the complex, but it’s well-worth the effort. The fortress was built by Cangrande II della Scala (Lord of Verona from 1351 to 1359) who, as he governed like a fist of steel bestowing wealth on his sons and reducing the people of Verona to poverty, needed to defend himself from the city rather than protect it from outside threat. Imposing, the castle dominates the Adige and offers an exceptional view over the city, hills and river to anyone looking out from the Ronda walkway. The masterful renovation of rooms within the castle, overseen by Carlo Scarpa (one of the most important architect and designers of the twentieth century), has transformed the fortress into the prestigious site for the Civic Museum (opened in 1964) and location for events and temporary exhibitions. It is impossible to count the works on display; there are the Romanesque sculptures and paintings that range from the Gothic period to the 18th century: choose your favorite! But, try not to hurry; pause for a moment in the garden, a harmonious natural space, well-integrated into the urban context, with waterways, decorative pools and manicured flowerbeds and hedges: this is the point of access to the museum, library and the Castelvecchio bridge. In an atmosphere of bygone eras, tour the halls in regal manner, and for a few hours, feel like the Lords of Verona!
