The Question:
The story of Romeo and Juliet happened in Verona. Is there any
place or thing in Verona, in connection to the play, that I could go
see?
The Answer:
William Shakespeare's famous star-crossed lovers are fictional
creations loosely based on characters from a story by Luigi da Porto
from Vicenza. It is believed, however, that his famous Montagues were
modelled on a real family in Verona, and it is possible to visit the
previous home of that family (Casi di Romeo or Romeo's House), which
has now been turned into an affordable restaurant.
If you're in the mood for something a little more romantic,
there is a fourteenth century estate, acquired by the city in 1905,
that proclaims itself Casa de Giulietta, or Juliet's House, located at
No. 27 Via Cappello. Perhaps a bit contrived, as it is not clear if
anyone by the name Capulet ever lived there, this tourist destination
is home to a balcony and courtyard which brings to mind speeches (O,
Romeo, Romeo! Wherefore art thou Romeo?) between the lovers, and
where, of course, visitors may take photographs.
More famously, Casa de Giulietta contains a bronze statue in the
image of Juliet herself. The statue has evolved into something of a
legend over the years, following the path of other European
attractions such as Ireland's Blarney Stone. Where a kiss on the
Blarney Stone will bring one seven years of eloquent speech, a rub of
Juliet's right breast will bring one luck in love. Don't forget to
bring a marker along with you as well. Writing your name on one of the
outer walls of the house, along with the countless others who have
contributed to the graffiti in the past by declaring their love for
one another, promises a love that is everlasting.
—The Editors
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