Overview
The monumental tomb of the Della Scala family
In the historical centre of Verona stands one of the most significant monuments of Gothic art, not only in the city but in the whole of northern Italy. We are talking about the Arche Scaligere, a monumental funerary complex housing the tombs - the ‘arks’ - of the noble Della Scala family. With their elegant, soaring forms stretching towards the sky and their rich decoration, they capture the gaze of passers-by and never fail to leave visitors breathless.
The sarcophagi are located next to the Church of Santa Maria Antica, which can be reached in a few minutes from the Balcony of Romeo and Juliet and from Piazza Erbe, and are bordered by a wrought-iron fence embossed with staircase motifs, the emblem of the Della Scala family. The tombs date back to the 14th century, the work of different sculptors but all sharing the same style.
The most famous ark belongs to Cangrande, lord of Verona at the beginning of the 14th century and protector of Dante Alighieri, who dedicated Paradise to him. The other two main arks belong to Mastino II and Cansignorio, both refined and richly decorated.
