SIGHTSEEING ITALY : VERONA SHAKESPEARE'S VECTOR

THE quaint town may not see as many tourists as Rome, Milan but its rich history and architecture make it a must-see.

Set out of a fairly tale, in the heart of Italy's Veneto region, lies the medieval and majestic Verona.

Often overshadowed by the neighboring Venice in the east, the quaint town is lesser known. But that does not diminish the fact that it boasts of so much character and beauty.

Famous for its Romanesque architecture, classic touch and literary fame, perhaps the greatest worldwide exposure Verona received was through William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet - the tragic love story of two youngsters from this Italian suburb.

Today, the city's overall demeanor, alleys and cobblestones express the poet's legacy, with art everywhere.

Known as the city of Love, a lot like Paris, Verona attracts history enthusiasts, literature buffs, thinkers and couples into its unapologetically old-fashioned charm.

Verona identifies itself as the home town of Romeo and Juliet, though they were but fictional characters. Such was the influence of Shakespeare's play that it is possible to relive the epic love story in every corner of this picturesque town.

The attraction is one way of living the Shakespearean play a bit more closely. Better known as 'Casa di Guiletta,'' no trip to Italy is complete without seeing Juliet's house - a must for people who read the acclaimed play. Thousands pay the 'love pilgrimage' to the site every year to pray for longevity in their relationships.

The famous balcony where Juliet confesses her love for Romeo is also attached to the centuries old-building, supposedly belonging to a family in Italy with a name similar to that of Capulets [Juliet's family].

Legend has it that touching her statue beings good fortune and hence, you see the ritual quite commonly practiced in the courtyard. The house is a major tourist attraction in Verona, with hundreds and thousands of messages and notes inscribed on its walls by the lovers from across the globe.

Not too far from Juliet's place lies 'Casa di Romeo,' comprising high walls with rich red marble. This medieval piece of art looks more like a castle. Rumous has it that the house was associated with the real-life Montagues [they and the Capulets were real families from Verona].

The house is well-guarded and has several traditional courtyards. While one is not allowed to go inside, tourists still visit the landmark to pay tribute to the spirit of love - something that can be felt in the air around Verona.

Verona might have a lot to do with Shakespeare but that is certainly not its only charm.

The city is home to some of the ancient castles, cathedrals, gardens and amphitheatres. It is surrounded by River Adige, offering stunning views of the sunset.

The city also makes an ideal destination for a Euro trip with the Austrian province of Tyrol only a few kilometres away.

The World Students Society thanks author Allia Bukhari.