Castel San Pietro

Castel San Pietro occupies the hilltop above the Roman Theatre in Veronetta, on the north bank of the Adige in Verona, Italy. The hill has been fortified since antiquity, and it was home to a Roman temple, later a Gothic castle built for the Visconti rulers of Milan and then strengthened under Venetian rule. The present building is a barracks constructed by the Austrians in the nineteenth century, after the earlier castle was destroyed, and its plain white facade is visible from across the city. The fortress buildings are not open to the public, but the open-air terrace in front of them is free and accessible at all hours. Visitors reach the viewpoint by climbing the stairs that begin beside Ponte Pietra, a walk of about ten minutes, or via a funicular that runs from the base of the hill in the tourist season. The terrace offers the classic view of Verona: the loop of the Adige, the arches of Ponte Pietra, the domes and bell towers of the old town, the Torre dei Lamberti and the surrounding hills. A visit typically takes 45 to 90 minutes, depending on the time spent photographing and sitting at the small cafe near the top. The best photo angle is straight down toward Ponte Pietra and the river, with the cathedral in the background, and sunset provides the most colourful light. After dark, lit rooftops and bridges create another popular scene. Crowds peak at sunset in warm months, when the terrace becomes full, so visitors who want an uncluttered view should arrive early. Mid-morning and early afternoon are quieter. The hill is also close to the Roman Theatre and the archaeological museum, and a visit often combines with them. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes for the steps and bring water in summer.