The Verona Funicular was designed in 1939 as a means of transport for the students of the Fine Arts Academy. B. Cignaroli, that was located at Castel San Pietro, and remained in operation from 1941-1944, but then ceased operating because of the war.
The destination stop and tracks remained abandoned for decades. while the starting station eventually became the Theatre/Workshop, opening there from 1975.
In 2011 the experimental theatre was moved elsewhere to make room for refurbishment of the Funicular, which reopened in June of 2017.
Colle San Pietro, which is also called Monte Gallo, it was the first inhabited part of the city between the 6th and 5th centuries B.C. and already from the 1st century A.D. it contained some of Verona’s largest buildings, such as the temple of Giove Ottimo Massimo, later destroyed, and the Roman Theatre, today one of the oldest and important examples of ancient Roman architecture that exists in Verona today.
The Colle – hill – also featured in the city’s history in Medieval times, when Theodoric king of the Ostrogoths had a palace built right on the top. A succession of rulers lived in this house including Alboin King of the Lombards and Berengar Marquis of Friuli.
For its dominating position above the city it was chosen by the Austrians for their Castel San Pietro barracks, built between 1854 and 1856 in neo-Romanesque style.
FAQ
Where does the funicular go?
The funicular reaches one of the most beautiful panoramic terrace over the city, called Castel San Pietro.
Where is the departure station?
Leaving Ponte Pietra on the left towards via Santo Stefano, the departure station is on the right.
In what year was it built?
Although the Funicular came into operation between 1941 and 1944, the current structure dates back to 2017, the year of reopening to the public.
Is the funicular accessible to people with disabilities?
The funicular is completely accessible.
Is it possible to access to the funicular with animals?
It is allowed to transport only pets and in particular only one dog (or more dogs belonging to the same owner), with the obligation to use a leash and a muzzle.
