Museo di Castelvecchio (Old Castle Museum), Verona (must see)

The Old Castle Museum, better known as the Castelvecchio Museum, is housed within the city’s impressive medieval fortress. Built between 1354 and 1356 by the Scaliger family to protect Verona’s rulers and provide a strategic escape route, the castle later served as a major military stronghold. During the 15th century, it stored weapons and munitions, and by the 18th century it had become the seat of the Venetian military academy. In 1923, the historic structure was transformed into a museum. Its location on the riverbank was deliberately chosen to ensure rapid escape across the bridge toward the Scaligers’ allies in northern territories.

Today, the museum’s collections span from the 12th to the 18th centuries, featuring Veronese sculptures, frescoes, paintings, ceramics, jewelry, weapons, and bells. Highlights include the Sepulcher of Saints Sergius and Bacchus, the Crucifix, the graceful Madonna of the Quail, and depictions of the Holy Family and revered saints. Works by major Italian artists such as Giovanni Bellini, Pisanello, and Paolo Veronese reflect Verona’s rich artistic heritage within the wider context of northern Italy.

The castle has undergone numerous modifications over its 700-year history. A major restoration led by architect Carlo Scarpa between 1958 and 1974 revived its medieval character. Scarpa’s design approach is now considered a masterpiece of 20th-century museum architecture, carefully combining historic structures with modern materials like concrete and iron to highlight the building’s evolution over time.

Exploring the museum is a delight, as its galleries lead through well-organised rooms, passageways, and open courtyards that reveal layers of history. Visitors can also walk along the battlements, where views of the Adige River and the Castelvecchio Bridge complete the experience. The bridge itself, known as Scaligero Bridge, was rebuilt after World War II, reconnecting the castle to its historic defensive route.