FOODWalk's new itinerary: The City of Crime

With 'The City of Crime' you'll travel through Verona's compelling history to discover stories of treacherous ambushes, gladiatorial spectacles, sinister plots, gruesome murders and chilling executions that have left their mark on Verona's storied streets.

FOODWalk is the online app we have developed to discover the hidden and enchanting facets of Verona. This platform has been carefully designed to allow people to immerse themselves in our city through five unique itineraries that encompass culinary heritage, historical insights, artistic wonders and enchanting folklore.

‘The City of Crime’ is the itinerary that takes you on a fascinating journey through Verona's historical tapestry, from the treacherous ambush of the Volto Barbaro (Barbarian Face) to the grand spectacle of the Arena, where gladiatorial contests once thrilled audiences. Immerse yourself in the city's dark and mysterious past as we unravel stories of sinister events and recount tales of nefarious plots, gruesome murders and swift, chilling executions that have left an indelible mark on Verona's storied streets.

Join us as we delve into the city's mysterious past!

It begins with the discovery of the story of the Barbarian Face. During the reign of Mastino I della Scala, Verona experienced unprecedented wealth and prosperity. But on the ominous day of 17 October 1277, a conspiracy was hatched. Mastino I and Nogarola, benevolent lords of the city, were ambushed and brutally murdered by the Guelphs in the alley known as Volto Barbaro, a street that bears the grim legacy of this event.

For lunch you can stop at the Trattoria Pizzeria Impero. Founded in the early 1900s as a tribute to Italy's imperial ambitions, Pizzeria Impero introduced its first pizza oven in the 1960s. Over time it has become a much-loved institution, renowned for its exceptional pizzas and warm hospitality.

Near Impero is the Basilica of Santa Anastasia, dedicated since 1307 to San Pietro Martire, who played an important role in the medieval history of Verona. In 1251, Pope Innocent IV entrusted Friar Peter of Verona with the mission of eradicating heretical beliefs in Cremona, marking an important chapter in the fight against heresy in Lombardy.

A symbol of the city is the Ponte Pietra overlooking Castel San Pietro. The Ponte Pietra, the oldest Roman monument in the city, is an essential part of Verona's history, serving as a strategic crossroads between Saint Peter's Hill and the plain. From the bridge you can see Castel San Pietro, which is linked to the legendary assassination of King Alboin, adding a touch of mystery to the ancient stones.

The next stop on the itinerary is the Scaligera Arch or Scaligera Tombs, a Gothic funerary complex belonging to the illustrious Scaligera family, with three main sarcophagi and the final resting places of six other family members. The complex is a symbol of Verona's historical heritage.

It's time to take a break at Altro Impero Pizza & Natura. Located in a historic building that was once Verona's first town hall, it offers a unique dining experience. It is famous for its organic pizzas, characterised by intense flavours, high nutritional value, reduced gluten content and improved digestibility.

Another stop not to be missed is Marangona, the bell of the Lamberti Tower. The 12th century Tower of Lamberti, known for its many bells, has a historical legend. Marangona, one of the bells, owes its name to a tale of jealousy and intrigue in which the actions of a Verona noblewoman led to its creation.

The perfect place to cool off is Gelateria Impero, in the heart of Verona. It offers traditional Italian gelato made with an abundance of fruit, minimal sugar, top-quality ingredients and a dedication to ancient flavours. They also offer authentic Sicilian granita and frozen yoghurt, all made with care.

An interesting addition to your trip is the Carlotti Palace. This historic building is located at the beginning of Corso Cavour and is associated with the famous duel between Romeo and Tybalt. The Juliet Club commemorates this event with a bas-relief on the fa?ade of the palace.

Another figure worth knowing is Isolina Canuti, a free young woman whose story is one of tragedy and injustice. Her memory, long obscured by prejudice and hypocrisy, has been revived in recent years thanks to the efforts of the writer Dacia Maraini.

It's time to visit the protagonist of Verona: the Arena, in Piazza Bra. Famous for its gladiatorial contests, the Arena was also the scene of one of Italy's greatest tragedies: the mass execution of two hundred Pàtari, poor monks who campaigned for the moral reform of the clergy. This little-known historical episode adds depth to the Arena's heritage.

To conclude this itinerary of the hidden sides of Verona, let yourself be enchanted by the history of La Costa in Bra, which dates back to the late 18th century, during the French occupation of Verona. This charming café, steeped in history, is linked to the legend of Romeo and Juliet's first kiss, adding a romantic touch to its story.

In 1962, La Costa introduced its first pizza oven, a novel concept at the time. The café eventually moved to Piazza Bra, in front of the Arena, where its story continues, becoming an important part of Verona's vibrant history.