Information
Landmark: Torre dei LambertiCity: Verona
Country: Italy
Continent: Europe
Torre dei Lamberti, Verona, Italy, Europe
Overview
The Torre dei Lamberti stands out among Verona’s landmarks, and from its top you can see red-tiled rooftops and winding streets stretching in every direction.Rising over the heart of Verona’s old town, this medieval tower stands beside the lively Piazza delle Erbe, its weathered stones a lasting emblem of the city’s history and changing architecture.First.The Lamberti family, wealthy merchants and aristocrats in Verona, began building the tower in 1172, laying its first stones under the hot summer sun.It served to guard the grounds and to show off the family’s wealth and power, its stone walls catching the sunlight like a quiet boast.The Scaligeri family, who ruled Verona in the 14th century, finished building the tower, which originally rose 84 meters-about 276 feet-making it one of the tallest landmarks in the city, its shadow stretching across the cobbled streets.Over the centuries, the tower served many roles-at one time a watchtower scanning the city’s rooftops, at another a bell tower ringing over the streets.It’s been restored more than once, especially after a 12th-century earthquake left cracks in its stone walls.The tower’s most significant restoration took place in the 19th century, when builders raised it to its present height of 83 meters (272 feet) and gave it the look it still wears today, making it the tallest in Verona; its design blends the sturdy lines of medieval fortifications with the graceful details of the Renaissance.The base of the tower is solid stone, but above it rises a brick façade, added in the 14th century, its red surface weathered by centuries of wind and rain.The tower’s Renaissance-style clock, installed in the 16th century, still draws the eye, its dark hands sweeping across a pale face.Warm red bricks rise beneath it, set against crisp white stone that makes the whole structure glow in late afternoon light.In medieval Verona, builders often paired local brick with stone-practical, affordable, and easy on the eyes, like the warm red of kiln-fired clay against pale limestone.The tower still holds a set of bells, a few ringing out since the Middle Ages.The great bell, still ringing out today and called the “Marangona,” once marked the start of markets, major city gatherings, and the evening curfew.At the very top of the Torre dei Lamberti, a wind-swept viewing platform offers a clear, 360-degree sweep of Verona’s rooftops and winding streets.From this spot, you can take in the Verona Arena, Castel San Pietro, the glinting Adige River, and the rolling hills beyond.To reach the top, either tackle all 368 steps or glide up in the glass elevator added for an easier climb.Reaching the top rewards you with a sweeping view-red-tiled rooftops below and rolling green hills beyond-and the Torre dei Lamberti itself stands as a proud emblem of Verona, bridging its medieval roots with the elegance of the Renaissance.Rising from the heart of the old town, the tower commands Verona’s skyline, its brick walls glowing warm at sunset.It’s also one of the city’s most visited sights.Right in the heart of Verona beside Piazza delle Erbe, the Torre dei Lamberti is a perfect launch point for wandering to nearby spots like Piazza dei Signori, the Palazzo della Ragione, or the Scaliger Tombs, and its stone tower sometimes comes alive with music, art shows, or festivals that draw both locals and visitors; it’s open most of the year, though the hours shift with the seasons.You’ll need to pay a small entrance fee to climb the tower and take in its sweeping views of the city.Wander through at your own pace, or join a guided tour to hear stories about its construction, the Lamberti family, and Verona’s medieval past.Just steps away, you’ll find Piazza delle Erbe, Juliet’s House, and the Verona Arena-perfect starting points for exploring the historic center.And look up: the tower’s broad clock faces, shaped by Renaissance design, still catch the afternoon light.The clock still chimes the hour for the city, its clear bell carrying over the rooftops.Rising above Verona, the Torre dei Lamberti stands as a proud reminder of the Lamberti family’s once-great power, a symbol that endures long after their influence faded.From its heights, visitors can step back into the city’s medieval past and take in a sweeping view that stretches to the distant hills.Steeped in history, crowned with graceful arches, and alive with cultural energy, this landmark belongs on every traveler’s list when exploring the city.
