The Scaliger Tombs (Arche Scaligeri) take pride of place at the entrance to the church of the one-time ruling family of Verona. Set in a courtyard outside the Church of Santa Maria Antica, the Scaliger Tombs are a magnificent example of Gothic art. The open-air setting has given visitors the chance to witness the family’s importance to the city for centuries after its reign.
Guarding a side doorway to the church is the memorial of Cangrande I, the founder and most influential member of the empire. Cangrande means great dog in Italian and four dog sculptures hold up a sarcophagus adorned with reliefs. A ceremonial canopy supported by columns and decorative capitals shelter the tomb. The crowning feature is an equestrian statue of Cangrande the original is on display in the Castelvecchio Museum.
Additional memorials stand in a fenced courtyard to the side of the church. Check out the tomb of Mastino II, decorated with representations of the virtues, religious motifs and statues of angels. With figures of knights and the Apostles, the tomb of Cansignorio is the most ostentatiously decorated. Above both tombs are equestrian statues of the respective rulers. Other family members lay inside standalone sarcophagi, each featuring carved portrayals of the Scaliger coat of arms.
The tombs stand in the courtyard of the Church of Santa Maria Antica, which dates back to 1185. If the church is open during your visit, step inside to appreciate the peace and quiet of the modest interior. Look for the early 14th-century frescoes in the central nave.
You’ll find the tombs located adjacent to Piazza dei Signori, which is the historic central square of Verona’s Città Antica. The tombs are a short walk from major city attractions such as Lamberti Tower, Piazza delle Erbe and Verona Arena.
There’s an admission fee to enter the courtyard of Scaliger Tombs. Otherwise, you can see them from the street for free at any time of the day. Signs in English provide historical information about the area.