Arche Scaligere, Verona

Tomb in Verona

Arche scaligere Verona
Arche scaligere Verona
CC BY-SA 4.0 / MartinucciG92

The Arche Scaligere are Verona's dramatic Gothic tombs for the ruling della Scala (Scaliger) family, set in a small walled courtyard beside the church of Santa Maria Antica. Even before you step closer, the iron grilles and soaring stone canopies feel like a theatrical reveal in the middle of everyday city life, with equestrian statues and sharp Gothic lines rising above the lane.

This spot is one of the must-see places in Verona because it's so uniquely Veronese: power, faith, and civic pride all compressed into a compact courtyard you can absorb in a short stop. It also works perfectly on a walking tour of Verona, since you can pair it with Piazza dei Signori and Piazza delle Erbe in the same tight loop without backtracking.

History and Significance of the Arche Scaligere

The tombs commemorate the Scaliger family, who ruled Verona from the 13th into the late 14th century, shaping the city's politics, architecture, and identity in ways you still feel as you walk the centre. Their burial monuments were designed to be seen, not hidden-public statements of legitimacy and prestige placed right beside a key church, where civic life and religious life overlapped.

Artistically, the complex is famous for its Gothic language: tall, open, tabernacle-like structures that lift the sarcophagi up toward the sky, topped by statues of the deceased in armour on horseback. It’s a visual message you can read even without being an expert-these were rulers who wanted to be remembered as warrior-lords, guardians of the city, and figures who stood above ordinary time.

One of the most rewarding things about the Arche Scaligere is how immediate they are. There's no “museum distance” here; you are face-to-face with medieval Verona's idea of power, carved into stone and framed by wrought iron that still carries the “scala” motif associated with the family name.

Things to See and Do in the Arche Scaligere

Start by taking in the overall composition through the grilles, because the view from the street is part of the experience: you can see how the monuments are arranged, how high the canopies rise, and how the courtyard creates a private stage within a busy area. If the gate is open during your visit window, step inside and notice how the scale changes when the tombs are no longer “across a barrier” but right beside you.

Look for the classic Gothic elements: pointed arches, dense decoration, and the baldachin-like canopies that turn each tomb into a vertical sculpture. The equestrian figures on top are especially memorable, not just as portraits, but as symbols-armour, posture, and horse stance all engineered to project authority.

Finally, use the stop as a small “context reset” in your day. Because the tombs sit among several key squares and civic buildings, they're an ideal place to pause, appreciate the medieval layer of Verona, and then continue your route with sharper eyes for coats of arms, fortified corners, and the city's political geography.

How to Get to the Arche Scaligere

The nearest airport is Verona Villafranca Airport (VRN), with additional options via Bergamo (BGY) and Venice Marco Polo (VCE) if you are combining cities. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Verona on Booking.com. From the airport, the easiest plan is to reach central Verona by bus or taxi, then walk to the historic centre around Piazza dei Signori.

If you arrive by train, you'll come into Verona Porta Nuova, then take a short bus ride or a walk into the old town toward Piazza delle Erbe and Santa Maria Antica. Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy. Once you are in the centre, the final approach is on foot through pedestrian lanes.

City buses are practical from Porta Nuova if you want to save steps, especially in summer heat, and they drop you within an easy walk of the central squares. After that, Verona’s compact centre does the rest.

If you are traveling by car, park outside the tightest historic core and walk in, since ZTL restrictions and limited access make driving to central lanes inefficient. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Arche Scaligere

  • Entrance fee: Free (courtyard entry is reserved for holders of a same-day Civic Museums ticket or a VeronaCard).
  • Opening hours: Friday – Sunday: 10:00–13:00 & 14:00–17:00. Closed on Monday – Thursday.
  • Official website: https://museodicastelvecchio.comune.verona.it/nqcontent.cfm?a_id=47849
  • Best time to visit: Go earlier in the day for a calmer lane scene and clearer views through the grilles, or late afternoon for softer light on the stonework.
  • How long to spend: 15-30 minutes is enough for a satisfying visit, longer if you want to study details and pair it with the nearby squares.
  • Accessibility: The site is compact, but surfaces and thresholds can be uneven; if the courtyard is open, move slowly and watch your footing.
  • Facilities: There are no major on-site facilities, so plan your restrooms and breaks around the nearby cafés and piazzas.

Where to Stay Close to the Arche Scaligere

For a culture-heavy itinerary, base yourself in Verona's Centro Storico around Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza Bra so you can reach the main sights early and return on foot between stops; if your priority is transport links and day trips, staying near Verona Porta Nuova keeps arrivals and departures simple without feeling disconnected.

For a classic, elegant stay right in the historic centre, Due Torri Hotel places you within a few minutes’ walk of the tombs and the city’s most atmospheric lanes. If you want a reliable, walk-first base close to the main squares, Hotel Accademia is a strong option for weaving sights into your day without logistics friction. For an easy, practical base with quick station access while still keeping the centre walkable, Hotel Firenze works well for early trains or day trips.

Is the Arche Scaligere Worth Visiting?

Yes, especially if you want a high-impact medieval Verona moment that takes very little time. The monuments are visually unforgettable, and the setting-half-hidden behind grilles beside a church-makes the experience feel like you've stumbled onto a private chapter of the city's history.

They're also an excellent “texture stop” between bigger attractions. Even if you are not planning a deep history day, the Arche Scaligere give you a tangible sense of who shaped Verona and how public memory was designed to endure.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.6 (1,329)

Scaliger Tombs, set beside the small church of Santa Maria Antica at Via S. Maria Antica 4 in Verona, are an evocative cluster of ornate Gothic funerary monuments dedicated to members of the della Scala family; the raised, intricately carved tombs—each crowned with a statue of the deceased on horseback—sit behind decorative iron grilles in a compact courtyard near Piazza dei Signori, offering a dramatic, slightly hidden glimpse into the city's medieval past and well worth a short stop while exploring the historic centre.

Dr. Hani Hossni
2 months ago
"The Scaliger Tombs in Verona are a stu ing example of Gothic funerary architecture, built to honor the powerful della Scala family who ruled the cityin the 13th and 14th centuries. Located near Piazza dei Signori, these ornate tombs resemble miniature cathedrals, with intricate canopies, iron grilles, and statues of mounted knights. Each tomb reflects the prestige and influence of its occupant, including Cangrande I, one of Verona’s most notable leaders. The site offers a dramatic and evocative glimpse into medieval Verona, blending artistry, history, and legacy in a compact yet unforgettable corner of the city’s historic center...."
il Câpitano _VAP
a month ago
"The Scaliger Tombs are a fascinating example of Gothic architecture. These imposing funerary monuments are dedicated to members of the della Scalafamily. They are located in an evocative courtyard in the heart of the city. Their grandeur testifies to the power and wealth of a bygone era. Looking at them is an experience that transports you back in time.🇮🇹💯🫶💪n27.09.2025..."
Fiona Banham
3 months ago
"Really interesting and beautiful tombs. A very small site, but well worth seeing, and you get free entry with a Verona Card. The staff were reallylovely and helpful as well, and gave us lots of information. Worth a trip..."

For Different Travelers

Families with Kids

For families, this works best as a short, visual stop rather than a long explanation. Kids often engage quickly with the idea of knights on horseback and “tombs of rulers,” especially when you point out the statues above and the dramatic height of the canopies.

Keep the visit simple and goal-based: spot the horses, count the arches, and then move on before attention fades. Pair it with a snack break in the nearby squares so the stop feels like part of a pleasant rhythm rather than a lesson.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, the Arche Scaligere are a quieter kind of Verona romance: stone, shadow, and atmosphere rather than crowds and clichés. The lane setting feels intimate, and it's an easy place to slow down together and notice detail.

It also pairs well with a gentle route that stays close by-Piazza dei Signori, then Piazza delle Erbe, then a drift into smaller streets for a drink. The whole sequence feels natural and unforced, which is often the best version of Verona.

Budget Travelers

Budget travelers should prioritise this because the experience is strong even if you only view it from the street. The tombs are designed to be seen, and the wrought-iron grilles still let you appreciate the main forms and the drama of the setting.

If the courtyard is open and your ticket setup qualifies for entry, it’s a nice bonus, but it’s not required for the stop to feel worthwhile. Combine it with free wandering in the central piazzas and a river walk later for a full day that stays light on costs.

History Buffs

History buffs will find this one of Verona’s most concentrated statements of medieval power. The Scaligers are not abstract here; they are carved into a deliberate, public display of status, with iconography that frames them as warrior-rulers under a sacred backdrop.

Take your time reading the monuments as political theatre: height, armour, and placement all matter. Then look around the immediate area, because the surrounding civic spaces help explain why this location was chosen to anchor memory in the daily life of the city.

FAQs for Visiting Arche Scaligere

Getting There

They are beside the church of Santa Maria Antica, just off Piazza dei Signori in the historic centre. You are only a short walk from Piazza delle Erbe and other central landmarks.
Head to Piazza dei Signori and look for Santa Maria Antica, then follow the small lanes along the church side. The tomb courtyard is clearly marked by the iron grilles and the vertical Gothic forms behind them.
Take a bus into the centre or walk toward Piazza Bra and continue into the old town to reach Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza dei Signori. Once you are in the pedestrian core, it’s an easy final approach on foot.
Parking is best handled at central garages outside the tightest lanes, then finished on foot. Driving into the old town core is rarely efficient due to restrictions and narrow access.

Tickets & Entry

You can see the tombs clearly from the street through the grilles without paying anything. Entering the courtyard itself depends on access periods and ticket conditions.
You get a closer, more immersive view of the monuments and their details, without the barrier of the fence. It’s still a compact visit, but the scale and carving read much better up close.
Usually not, because the stop is brief and often works as a walk-by highlight. If your travel dates are specific and you want courtyard access, check the official updates close to your visit.
The main one is that access can be limited to certain periods, so do not assume the gate will always be open. Also, keep noise low, as the setting is directly beside an active church space.

Visiting Experience

Plan 15-20 minutes for a satisfying look and a few photos. Add a little more if the courtyard is open and you want to study the carvings.
Yes, because they sit right on the central walking circuit and deliver a distinct medieval highlight quickly. They add depth to a one-day route without requiring a major time investment.
Pair them with Piazza dei Signori, Piazza delle Erbe, and a climb up Torre dei Lamberti for a great contrast between medieval power and panoramic city views. This creates a tight loop with minimal transit and plenty of atmosphere.
It still works in bad weather because you can view the tombs from the street without committing to a long outdoor visit. If the ground is wet, take extra care on stone surfaces around the church and lanes.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Many tours pass here because Piazza dei Signori is a natural stop in the historic centre. Even if the tour does not enter the courtyard, guides often use the view through the grilles as a quick highlight.
Independent visiting works well because the monuments are visually readable and centrally located. A guide adds value if you want deeper context on which Scaliger is which and how the symbolism fits Verona’s politics.
Start at Piazza delle Erbe, detour to the tombs by Santa Maria Antica, then continue to Piazza dei Signori and finish with Torre dei Lamberti or a coffee nearby. The route stays compact, scenic, and easy to navigate.

Photography

Yes, especially because the Gothic forms create strong vertical lines and dramatic silhouettes. The contrast between dark iron grilles and pale stone canopies also photographs well.
Late morning is often easiest for balanced light in the narrow lanes. Late afternoon can be more atmospheric, with warmer tones and deeper shadows that emphasize the Gothic mood.
Street-level photography is straightforward as long as you are considerate in narrow lanes. If you enter the courtyard, follow any posted guidance and keep your setup minimal so you are not blocking others.
A strong classic is shooting through the grilles to frame the tombs with the ironwork. If the courtyard is open, step back slightly and capture the full height of the canopies with the equestrian statues above.

Accessibility & Facilities

The street-level view is very accessible and does not require stairs. Courtyard access, when open, may involve thresholds and uneven surfaces, so a slow, careful approach is best.
There are no dedicated facilities at the tombs themselves. Plan comfort breaks around Piazza delle Erbe and nearby cafés where services are easy to find.
Yes, the surrounding squares offer plenty of seating options in cafés and calmer corners. It’s a good area to pause because you are in the heart of Verona’s walking circuit.
Yes, as a short stop it’s easy to manage, and the street-level view works well with strollers. If the courtyard is open, be prepared for tighter space and uneven surfaces.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Piazza delle Erbe is the obvious choice, but better value and calmer seating are often found one or two lanes back. That small detour keeps you close while avoiding the busiest tables.
This is a great moment for a quick espresso or gelato between sights, since you are surrounded by walkable streets and small spots. If you want a longer pause, use the nearby squares as your anchor and then choose a side-street place for a quieter lunch.

Safety & Timing

Yes, the central lanes and squares remain lively and well-travelled into the evening. Keep normal awareness of belongings, especially where crowds cluster around popular piazzas.
Early visits tend to be calmer, which helps you appreciate the setting without congestion. Later can feel more atmospheric, but the lanes are often busier, so your experience depends on timing and crowd flow.

Nearby Attractions to the Arche Scaligere

  • Santa Maria Antica: A small Romanesque church beside the tombs that adds context and a calmer, older Verona atmosphere.
  • Piazza dei Signori: Verona's civic square, elegant and quieter than Piazza delle Erbe, ideal for lingering and people-watching.
  • Piazza delle Erbe: The city's liveliest historic square, packed with façades, market energy, and easy café stops.
  • Torre dei Lamberti: The best central viewpoint for seeing Verona's rooftops and understanding the city layout in minutes.
  • Castelvecchio Museum: A Scaliger fortress turned museum that deepens the story of Verona's rulers, art, and military architecture.

The Arche Scaligere appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Verona!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

Read our full story here

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!

Planning Your Visit

Hours:

Friday - Sunday: 10:00-13:00 & 14:00-17:00.

Closed on Monday - Thursday.

Price:

Free (courtyard entry is reserved for holders of a same-day Civic Museums ticket or a VeronaCard).

Address: Scaliger Tombs, Via Santa Maria Antica, Verona, VR, Italy
Verona: 1 km
Official Website

Nearby Attractions

Similar Blogs