Piazzale Castel San Pietro (San Pietro Fortress), Verona (must see)

Saint Peter Fortress sits high on a hill overlooking Verona, a defensive position first used in Roman times. The Romans called this hill Rooster Mountain and considered it a strategic and sacred place, constructing both a temple and a theatre on the slopes. Archaeological discoveries suggest the presence of military structures on the summit as early as the 1st century BC.

The site later took the name Castle of Saint Peter after a medieval church dedicated to Saint Peter was built here. Fortifications grew around it, and between the 14th and 15th centuries the Visconti of Milan constructed a castle, known as Visconti Castle, to reinforce control over the city. This castle formed an important link in defensive lines running along the Adige River.

Much of the medieval complex was destroyed in 1801 by Napoleonic forces. The subsequent Austrian occupation led to the demolition of Saint Peter’s Church as well, making space for military barracks — the structures that still dominate the hilltop today. The Austrians equipped the site with a cable-operated transport system to supply the troops stationed above, a logistical innovation for its time.

Visitors can reach the summit by climbing the stepped pathways or by taking the funicular opened in 2017 for a quick and scenic ride. The viewpoint offers one of the finest panoramas of Verona, especially at sunset, with terracotta rooftops, church towers, and the Adige River all unfolding below. A café-restaurant at the top provides a comfortable place to enjoy the view with a drink or meal while appreciating the long history of the hill.