Saint Anastasia Church, Verona (must see)

Saint Anastasia Church is the largest church in Verona, a monumental example of Italian Gothic architecture. Construction began in 1280 under the Dominican Order and continued into the early 15th century. The church takes its name from a former early Christian oratory dedicated to Saint Anastasia that once stood on this site. Its façade remains incomplete, with exposed brick and a simple rose window, though elegant sculpted details include imagery linked to Saint Peter Martyr, an important Dominican figure.

The 72-meter bell tower dominates the church’s profile along the Adige River. While it originally held four bells, today it houses nine, rung in the traditional Veronese style, a complex and melodious method unique to the region. Inside, the church opens into soaring aisles supported by alternating red and white Verona marble columns, a signature feature of the city’s Gothic churches.

Near the entrance stand the two famous “hunchbacks”: the left stoup is attributed to Gabriele Caliari, father of the painter Paolo Veronese, and dates to the late 15th century, while the right stoup, nicknamed “Pasquino”, is the work of Paolo Orefice from 1591. Throughout the interior, other important works include frescoes and altarpieces by Altichiero da Zevio and Girolamo dai Libri.

The church’s most celebrated artwork is found in the Pellegrini Chapel: Pisanello’s masterpiece “Saint George and the Princess”, completed in 1438. The fresco’s exquisite detail — from the knight’s armor to the elegant courtly figures — makes it one of the finest examples of International Gothic painting in Italy. In the Cavalli Chapel, vivid 14th-century frescoes depict members of the powerful Cavalli family in knightly procession.

Tip:
Get yourself an audio-guided tour for a small fee to get familiar with the history of the place and the artwork.
Alternately, consider buying either a Verona Card or a ticket that allows you to visit the 4 largest places of worship in Verona with a nice discount.