The basilica is named after Saint Anastasia, a martyr who lived in the 4th century AD. The basilica kept the name of an earlier church that stood on the same site, although it’s also dedicated to St. Peter, one of Verona’s patron saints. Construction of the current church started in 1290 and continued for hundreds of years. In fact, the facade is still unfinished; there’s a painting above the altar that shows how the final design was meant to look.
The basilica was the main place of worship for Verona’s ruling families, including the influential Scaliger family. The interior, with its richly decorated vaulted ceiling and ornate side chapels, often features on guided tours of the city. Another highlight: the fresco of St. George and the Princess by 15th-century artist Pisanello.