Sottoriva

Overview

Sottoriva is a medieval porticoed street running along the right bank of the Adige, one of the most atmospheric corners of old Verona. Its stone arcades, originally designed to protect riverside trade, now shelter small restaurants and artisan workshops.

Highlights

• Medieval Porticoes: The covered walkway with stone arches is one of the few surviving medieval commercial streets in Verona.
• Riverside Setting: The Adige is steps away, and you can hear the water rushing below the embankment.
• Authentic Dining: Several traditional trattorias here serve Veronese specialties away from the tourist circuit.

History

Sottoriva was Verona's medieval riverside commercial quarter, where goods arriving by boat were stored and traded under the protective arcades. The porticoes date to the 12th–13th centuries. The street name means "under the bank" (sotto la riva), referring to the Adige embankment.

Visitor Tips

• Evening: The porticoed street is evocative after dark when the restaurants set out candlelit tables.
• Quiet escape: Steps from Piazza delle Erbe but worlds away in atmosphere.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes for a stroll.