VERONA, Italy: Juliet's House.

After lunch in Verona, Jason and I visited Juliet's House. The Capulet family, from Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet were fictional, but some think that the Capulet family were based on the actual dell Capello family who did own the house for a time. The house was built in the 13th century, but the balcony was added in 1936. Nevertheless, people flock to this house with its tiny courtyard and balcony, pledging their love to each other or writing letters to Juliet to find their true love. 'Letters to Juliet' was partially based upon this writing of letters to Juliet. 

Once in the courtyard, we saw letters left in a basket for Juliet and love locks. There were signatures on every available space; walls, signs, gates. The gift shop next door embroidered little colored hearts that you could take home as a souvenir. The actual stitching process was done by a machine, controlled by a foot pedal and a hand dial, and the people creating them were so fast and efficient! 

A bronze statue of Juliet also stands in the courtyard. Supposedly, rubbing Juliet's right breast will bring good luck. I don't know about that, but I did pose for a photo with her. Maybe I will have good luck anyway. ;)