Well known as the setting for the story of Romeo and Juliet, historic Verona Italy is a tangle of its storied past and modern industry. One of the most powerful cities during the early rule of the Roman Empire, the old city of Verona is one of the best-preserved sections in the country. Sure, it's an obvious place to begin, but no trip to Italy is complete without viewing the ruins of ancient Rome. The crumbling remains of one of the great Republics in world history, you can see what is left of the victory arches, the decaying roads, the temples that used to command the Roman skyline. Palatine Hill offers a glimpse into how the Emperors once lived, and the Colosseum stands at the apex of the entire city, its once-imposing circular walls still housing the legends of those who fought and died on its arena floor.