The west facade is broad and austere in the typical Veronese Romanesque style, but a double porch, small pinnacles, and Lombard bands add visual interest. The west portal of the cathedral was sculpted by Maestro Nicolo (who also carved the portal at San Zeno) in 1139.

Dedicated to S Maria Matricolare, Verona Cathedral is important for its Romanesque sculpture, particularly the two porch-portals, the earlier on the south side attributed to Pelegrinus and the main façade portal signed by Nicholaus. Only the exterior walls up to the decorated cornice on the west, south and east sides belong to the Romanesque period, for the cathedral was enlarged in the 15th century in Gothic style. Renaissance elements were also added in the 16th century; notably the bell tower (ca. 1550) and main chapel by Michele Sanmicheli.