The Botteghe Storiche, or historical shops, are an integral part of Verona’s rich heritage. These businesses either have been part of the city’s urban fabric for at least forty years or they stand out for their architectural, historical, artistic or cultural value. Their vibrant presence not only contributes to the city’s identity but also plays a crucial role in preserving its traditions. These shops safeguard Verona’s historical memory, reflecting the profound connection between the territory and the daily life of the locals.

To protect and celebrate this invaluable heritage, since 2001, the Municipality of Verona has been promoting the project Botteghe Storiche. The initiative aims to support the commercial establishments, venues and artisan businesses that, despite the evolution of the economic landscape, have managed to preserve their identity.

In today’s article we highlight just some of the most famous ones, but we invite you to discover the full list and visit additional shops that align with your interests and curiosities. Just the best way to find traces of the past while wandering through Verona.

Caffè Borsari

Located halfway down Corso Porta Borsari, Bottega del Caffèー formerly known as Tubino and now rebranded as Caffè Borsariーboasts a long history. It was founded on May 11, 1969 by Aldo Salomoni and is currently run by his son, Steve.

Caffè Borsari is renowned for its coffee tasting, featuring blends from its own roasting alongside an array of exotic selections. The inviting interior is decorated with charming details, such as colorful cups, teapots and an assortment of products for sale, all of which contribute to a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The exterior of the building has retained much of its original character over the years, except for the Tubino sign which was removed in 2006 after the loss of exclusive rights to the Tubino coffee brand. The window, entrance door and the wooden ceiling with its square panels preserve their original charm, as do the wooden slatted floor and the counter, which, despite some minor alterations, maintains its authentic character.

Coltelleria Calcagni

Founded in 1903, the Calcagni cutlery shop is located on Largo Pescheria Vecchia and it holds a place in the register of Verona’s Historical Shops for both its significance and seniority.

The shop’s glass sign dates back to the early 20th century and it features enameled graphics, framed by wooden profiles and set within a metal structure. What’s particularly intriguing is that the shop’s window has remained unchanged since its opening and it still showcases its main feature: it rotates on itself. Something that sets it apart from anything else in the city.

Drogheria Emaldi

The origins of Emaldi grocery shop date back to 1864, when Francesco De Togni founded it just outside the walls of Porta Vescovo. However, to avoid paying the duties imposed by the Austrians on goods entering the city, the shop relocated within the walls in 1882 to its current location at Via San Paolo 6.

Over the course of more than 150 years, five generations have guided the grocery store that has continuously evolved while maintaining its commitment to sourcing the highest quality productsーoften rare and difficult to find.

Inside, you can admire period furniture and utensils still in use. One of the main walls features an elegant shelving that displays glass jars filled with herbs, essences and loose products. The counter, matching the style of the shelving, boasts a white marble top and is embellished with a brass handrail and embossed friezes.

Farmacia Internazionale

The Farmacia Internazionale first opened its doors in 1929. However, it is important to acknowledge that a pharmacy known as “Farmacia Reale” had been operating at the same corner of Piazza Bra since 1630. In the late 1920s, architect Ettore Fagiuoli was commissioned to design the Teatro Filarmonico complex, which led to a reorganization of the pharmacy.

Today, the Farmacia Internazionale spans three levels: the upper floors are dedicated to homeopathic products, while the ground floor is used for public sales. Here you can admire the elegant interiors in neo-Gothic style from the 1930s. Among the most valuable elements, are a stunning original wooden counter with a finely decorated gray marble top.

Positioned at the edges of the counter are the scales with wood and marble arms and an ancient red marble mortar, both of significant historical value. The wardrobes with trilobate gables and the floor, made of tiny white tiles, are also original.