World Italy Veneto Verona

Mike and Cheryl's Journey of Italy, Croatia, and Southern France

Verona, Italy Sep 21, 2011

With heavy hearts we must leave the beautiful Lake region of Northern Italy! After a short drive we arrived at the medieval city of Bergamo. This city dated back to 200 BC when the Romans built the city as a fortress to guard the northern routes for trade and the army. Most of the time was spent in the beautiful central square Piazza Vechicco. Amazing pastry shops side by side with quaint shops showing local crafts were everywhere. We visited the palace of the ruling family made famous by the mercenary lord that had the fortune to have 3 testicles! Not the claim to fame most would desire. But a claim none the less! In route to Verona, we stopped at a wonderful winery for a tasting and lunch. The vineyard specialized in Prosecco, Italian Champagne,as well as a wonderful Amarone red. We enjoyed a 4 course lunch including some of the best Risotto I have ever had! Life is great! Shortly after this we arrived at the most “romantic city” in the world, Verona! Verona lived up to this reputation and then some! The tiny winding streets littered with cafes and shops coupled with the walking areas along the river that meandered through the old town area were amazing! It was a city where you could walk around any time of day and not only feel very safe and welcome, but almost feel like you belonged! We have become part Italian! The food and Wine were unbelievable! We took in all the sights that you will see in the photos including the obligatory visit to the homes of Romeo and Juliet! Even though Shakespeare made these two characters up—the town has embraced the concept and now hosts 4 million visitors a year to visit these homes!! Brilliant!!!