A medieval journey to Verona

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Justin Weaver
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  Peering through narrow slits in his metallic helmet, the Yellow Knight zeroed in on his target. Twenty yards away, the Green Knight defiantly raised his serrated sword and called to his opponent as both horse and rider charged across the sand-filled arena. Frothing at the mouth, the Yellow Knight's horse reared up on its back legs and then sprung forward to attack the approaching opponent.

What may sound like a scene straight from the 12th Century was actually happening live with wizards, wenches, knights and a king at the Medieval Times Restaurant and Show just outside of Verona.

The day-long ITT trip included a guided tour through the wonderful city of Verona, a trip to Romeo and Juliet's houses, and to close out the evening, a succulent banquet at the Medieval Times Show.

Verona, located approximately three hours from Aviano, is home to the Arena di Verona, the Piazza delle erbe and for the romantics, Romeo and Juliet's houses.

The Arena, built in the first century AD, is one of the best conserved Roman amphitheatres and can hold up to 22,000 spectators. Open-air operas and plays take place beginning in the spring and ending in the fall.

The piazza square is one of the most historic and picturesque squares in Italy. It contains many historic buildings and sculptures with a popular and colorful market overflowing with fresh fruits, cheeses and wine.

A short walk from the Piazza is Juliet's house or in Italian, Casa di Giulietta. A must see for any romantic, visitors can shout to their "Romeo" from Juliet's balcony or, for "good luck in love," caress the statue of Juliet located in the courtyard below the balcony.

After the guided tour through Verona, ITT participants have about four hours to roam through the city, climb the 44 levels of the arena or have a scenic outdoor lunch in the piazza square. From there, the tour continues to the Medieval Times Show where we find our Yellow and Green knights along with two other knights fighting for the prized possession of the match--the King's daughter, Princess Esmeralda.

During the show, a feast of soup, chicken, bread and apple strudel are served with unlimited ale, wine or soda. But, in true medieval style, no utensils are given. The show runs from 7-9 p.m. March through November. For more information, visit http://www.canevaworld.it.

The ITT trip begins at 8 a.m. and returns at 1 a.m. at Area 1. The next Guided Verona and Medieval Dinner Show takes place 8 a.m. June 21 at Area 1. Contact ITT at 632-3107 for more information or to reserve a seat.