Verona: The search for Juliet

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Evelyn Chavez
  • 31st Fighter Wing
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  "O Romeo, Romeo! Wherefore art thou Romeo?" may be one of the most famous quotes in William Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet," but perhaps only a few remember that the play was actually set in Verona, a mere two hours from Aviano.

I didn't remember, after all it has been a few years since I read the play.

Needless to say, my best friend, a history buff with a great memory, reminded me about this fact when I asked about the places she has visited. After our chat, I decided to venture off to the city and make a journey to find Juliet.

My day trip started with a short drive of about 120 miles from Pordenone, and after arriving at the city, I was welcomed by a sight of the Roman amphitheater Arena di Verona, or the Verona Arena.

The amphitheater can hold about 30,000 spectators and is still used for opera performances during the months of June through August. Even if you visit during off-season, you still have the opportunity to enter for less than 10 euro.

After we found a parking space, which are fairly easy to find compared to other Italian cities, we walked toward the center where people were gathered drinking coffee and wine. Sitting at the center allows you to enjoy the view of the theater, park and the constant shoppers.

To get to my destination, the statue of Juliet, I "unfortunately" had to walk through about half a mile of Verona's shopping heaven. The strip of unique boutiques and designer stores lead the way to the Casa di Giulietta, or the house of Juliet.

There are visible signs that point you into the direction of what is said to be Juliet Capulet's home. I strolled past the walls of the entrance where people were writing their names and those of loved ones along with love messages.

Then I saw Juliet, her bronze statue is surrounded by thousands of tourists hoping to touch her breast for good fortune. While some pose with her for photos you can also pay a small fee to enter the home and stand in the balcony where Juliet delivered some of her famous quotes.

Although, I must say it was not difficult to accomplish, my journey to find Juliet was complete. With a few hours to spare, I made my way to another tourist spot, Piazza delle Erbe, where the city market is hosted. In the plaza I found a few souvenirs, a beautiful fountain and a picturesque setting where I photographed a few breathtaking shots.

As my day came to an end, I made one final stop. I walked to the river that surrounds the city. I walked along the river path watching the sun set behind the buildings.

Another sunset in a beautiful Italian city, mission accomplished, it cannot get any better than this.