Arche Scaligere
Five Gothic tombs rise just off Piazza dei Signori, enclosed by a wrought iron fence that has stood since around 1382. The Della Scala family — who ruled Verona for a century — turned the small churchyard of Santa Maria Antica into a dynastic monument to themselves, and the result is something you don't quite expect: sarcophagi stacked on pillars, equestrian statues balanced at the apex of stone canopies, the whole ensemble pressed against a medieval church wall.
Look for the ladder on the coats of arms. Della Scala means 'of the stairs', and the family symbol appears throughout — on iron railings, carved stone, and the tomb facades. Cangrande, their greatest lord, means 'big dog', which is why his sarcophagus rests on four sculpted dogs.
💛 What travellers fall for
People who come back tend to linger at the fence even when the courtyard is closed — the ironwork is open enough to read the reliefs on the sarcophagi clearly. The Cansignorio tomb rewards close attention: Bonino da Campione signed his name into the stone, and the Gospel scenes on the sides are unusually fine.
The story behind Arche Scaligere
When the Della Scala family came to power in Verona in 1277, they chose the modest parish cemetery of Santa Maria Antica as their burial ground and, over the following century, built five increasingly elaborate Gothic funerary monuments there. The earliest, for Cangrande I — who died in 1329 and was patron to Dante Alighieri — sits above the church's lateral door. Mastino II's tomb, begun in 1345, was originally painted and gilded.
The most ambitious is the Arca di Cansignorio, dated 1375, commissioned from the sculptor Bonino da Campione, who left his name on the sarcophagus. Giovanni della Scala's tomb is the outlier: finished in 1359, it stood in the church of San Fermo Maggiore until 1400 before being moved here. The wrought iron enclosure followed in around 1382. Restorations came in 1786 and 1839, and the equestrian statues of Cangrande and Mastino II were eventually removed to controlled environments to slow their deterioration.
Good to know
The tombs are visible for free through the iron fence at any hour. Courtyard access runs April–September, Friday to Sunday, 10:00–13:00 and 14:00–17:00, and requires a same-day Civic Museums ticket or a VeronaCard. Budget 20–30 minutes. The original Cangrande equestrian statue is now inside Castelvecchio, a short walk away.
Spring (April–May) and early autumn (September–October) are the most comfortable seasons for standing in the open street to look at the tombs — summer humidity in Verona is real and lingers even in the shade. Winter visits are perfectly possible; the grey light actually suits the stone.
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What travellers say about Arche Scaligere
The Scaliger Tombs in Verona are a stunning example of Gothic funerary architecture, built to honor the powerful della Scala family who ruled the city in the 13th and 14th centuries. Located near Piazza dei Signori, these ornate tombs resemble miniature cathedrals, with intricate canopies, iron grilles, and statues of mounted knights. Each tomb reflects the prestige and influence of its occupant, including Cangrande I, one of Verona’s most notable leaders. The site offers a dramatic and evocative glimpse into medieval Verona, blending artistry, history, and legacy in a compact yet unforgettable corner of the city’s historic center.
The Scaliger Tombs are a fascinating example of Gothic architecture. These imposing funerary monuments are dedicated to members of the della Scala family. They are located in an evocative courtyard in the heart of the city. Their grandeur testifies to the power and wealth of a bygone era. Looking at them is an experience that transports you back in time.🇮🇹💯🫶💪 27.09.2025
The Scaliger Tombs, or Arche Scaligere, are one of Verona’s most striking and evocative historical landmarks. Located beside the Church of Santa Maria Antica, these elaborate Gothic funerary monuments honor the powerful Scaliger family, who ruled Verona during the 13th and 14th centuries. Even from the outside, the tombs are visually dramatic. Delicate stone canopies, sharp spires, and intricate carvings rise vertically, creating a sense of both elegance and authority. Each tomb is crowned with an equestrian statue, symbolizing power, leadership, and the family’s lasting influence over the city. The craftsmanship is remarkably detailed, especially considering their age.
Really interesting and beautiful tombs. A very small site, but well worth seeing, and you get free entry with a Verona Card. The staff were really lovely and helpful as well, and gave us lots of information. Worth a trip
The Scaliger Tombs in Verona are a striking example of Gothic funerary art, situated beside the small church of Santa Maria Antica. These elaborate monuments were built for the powerful della Scala family, who ruled Verona during the 13th and 14th centuries. Each tomb features detailed stone carvings and is topped with a statue of the deceased on horseback, highlighting their status and legacy. Despite their grandeur, the tombs are slightly tucked away behind a decorative iron gate, giving them a mysterious and almost hidden presence in the city’s historic center.
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