We reluctantly left the Lake Como area heading to the Dolomites. The scenery along the route was wonderful with acres and acres of perfectly groomed vineyards and acres of apple orchards with the apples growing on trees that look more like vines. Old castles occasionally dot the countryside high up on the hills.
We had a few hours in Verona along the way. This is an old city that dates back to the Roman times. And fills a bend in the Adige River. This city was made a household word by the story of Romeo and Juliet. There is a small square with Juliet's balcony and a statue of Juliet with a very shiny right breast as folklore has it that rubbing this breast will make you lucky in love. The core of Verona lies between Piazza Bra and Piazza Erbe which has been the market square since Roman times. The most outstanding feature in Verona is the Roman Arena dating from 400 AD. Over the centuries crowds of up to 25000. have cheered on everything from gladiator battles, medieval executions, rock concerts and operas. Within the inner city one is treated to surviving Roman gates. The unfortunate ing that we felt in this old city is that economics has one out and many of the facades of the ancient buildings have been severely changed by large glass windows of the multitude of stores, many of which we can find in most of our larger shopping ares. The stone bridges crossing the river are picturesque. Verona is a very busy tourist stop and though we enjoyed it we were happy to leave and head up to the Dolimites.
Enjoying a Aperol Spritz
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