Located in the middle of important communication routes, Verona's increased its importance as strategic geographical location under a military perspective.
Due to this, between 1854 and 1861, the Austrians decided to build a large arsenal, dedicated to Franz Joseph I. The work was part of a bigger process of urban adaptation of military structures, aimed to transform the city into the main permanent fortification of Lombardia - Veneto (in the same period Castel S. Pietro was built too).
Even after the annexation of the Veneto to the Kingdom of Italy (1866) and until the last war, the complex was used by the authorities for military purposes.

The building, situated on a vast and verdant stretch of plain, consists of nine buildings in the style of the Enlightenment, separated by courtyards, streets and squares, surrounded by a continuous wall.
In 1995, the Arsenal was transferred to the City of Verona, which has transformed a part of the area in a public park.