It might not end happily, but Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet is one of the most iconic romances of all time. Now one couple will get to channel the star-crossed lovers – preferably minus the poison – with a Valentine’s Day stay in Juliet’s historic home, courtesy of Airbnb.
In Verona, Italy, where the Bard laid his scene, Casa di Giuletta is the 13th-century townhouse thought to be the inspiration for the fictional heroine’s home, and it bears an uncanny resemblance, right down to the balcony of “wherefore art thou Romeo” fame. Today a museum and a magnet for an international assortment of tourists, the home will receive its first and only overnight guests on 14 February.
The property’s normally bare-bones interior has been gussied up for the occasion, draped in crystals, candles, and trailing vines and flowers, and the winning couple will be treated like royalty for the evening, with a personal butler, a private dinner from a Michelin-starred chef, and a night in the very bed that featured in director Franco Zeffirelli’s ‘60s take on the classic story. A Romeo and Juliet–inspired tour of the town and a private tour of the townhouse are also included.
“This stay will give one couple the unique chance to celebrate their love in what is possibly the most romantic home in the history of literature, ” Giacomo Trovato, general manager for Italy at Airbnb, said in a statement. “Juliet’s House is the most important museum in the City of Verona, attracting millions of visitors every year,” added Federico Sboarina, mayor of Verona Municipality. “We are excited to promote our cultural heritage, share traditions that were previously safeguarded, and bring international visibility to the City of Verona.”
Wannabe Romeos and Juliets should start sharpening their quills. Airbnb is accepting applications from 21 January until 11:59pm EST on 2 February, and to win the stay, all candidates have to do is share their tales of love, detailing why they and their partner would be the perfect guests.
For more information, visit airbnb.com.
