Museo degli Affreschi alla Tomba di Giulietta

Overview

The Museo degli Affreschi Giovanni Battista Cavalcaselle is housed in the former Franciscan convent of San Francesco al Corso. In the crypt lies the stone sarcophagus identified since the 17th century as Juliet's Tomb, a site of literary pilgrimage.

Highlights

• Juliet's Tomb: The empty red marble sarcophagus in the atmospheric crypt is the most visited literary site in Verona.
• Fresco Collection: Detached frescoes from demolished or damaged Veronese churches and palaces, spanning the 12th–16th centuries.
• Cloister and Garden: The peaceful 13th-century cloister provides a quiet retreat from the city center.

History

The convent dates to the 13th century. The association with Juliet emerged in the 1600s, inspired by Luigi da Porto's 1530 novella (the source for Shakespeare's play). The museum was established to preserve frescoes removed from buildings during urban renovation.

Visitor Tips

• Atmosphere: The crypt is dim and quiet — a surprisingly moving experience despite the literary fiction.
• Photography: Allowed in the museum and cloisters but not with flash.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.