Piazza Navona, Rome

Piazza Navona, Rome

History of Piazza Navona 

Piazza Navona sits on the foundations of the Stadium of Domitian (Stadio di Domiziano), constructed in the 1st century AD by Emperor Domitian as a place for athletic contests. The stadium could hold upwards of 20,000 spectators and was a reflection of Rome's passion for sport and public entertainment. By the 15th century, the remnants of the stadium were transformed into an open public square. The 17th-century beautification of Piazza Navona under Pope Innocent X became an archetype of Baroque works, argued to be by the likes of Gian Lorenzo Bernini and Francesco Borromini.

The square's dramatic transformation during the Baroque period did not only entail art for aesthetic reasons; on the contrary, it was catalyzed by some papal ambition. Pope Innocent X, whose family residence, Palazzo Pamphilj, is fronting the piazza, meant it to be a grand civic stage that would match any in Europe. With that in mind, the commission of Bernini's Fountain of the Four Rivers would be the center-the sculptural crowning glory symbolizing the Church's spiritual reach through the world; while Borromini would work on creating the new façade of Sant'Agnese in Agone, almost directly opposite Bernini's fountain, thereby igniting an everlasting architectural dialogue that still inspires historians as well as visitors. Through this makeover, Piazza Navona became the theatrical media describing the power struggles between art, architecture, and religion in Baroque Rome.

Best Attractions in the Piazza Navona

1. Fountain of the Four Rivers (Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi)

Constructed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in 1651.

The fountain symbolically represents the four great rivers of the four known continents at that time:

• Nile (Africa)
• Ganges (Asia)
• Danube (Europe)
• Rio de la Plata (Americas)
• The Circus of Maxentius got atop an ancient obelisk.

2. Sant'Agnese in Agone Church

• Designed by Francesco Borromini, Bernini's greatest rival.
• An umbrella for Roman Baroque architecture's regular jobs.
• At the place where Saint Agnes was traditionally believed to have been martyred.

3. Fontana del Moro & Fontana del Nettuno

• Fontana del Moro (South end): A Moor wrestling with a dolphin.
• Fontana del Nettuno (North end): Neptune versus a sea monster.
• Both fountains lighten the mood of the square, along with symmetry. 

Things to Do in Piazza Navona

The artists and street performers: Once it is music, painting, or caricature, the square is full of talent.

Dine al fresco: One of the many cafes and restaurants where you can eat Italian food while enjoying the view.

Visit the underground ruins: Visit remnants of Domitian's Stadium through guided tours, or via entry points close to the Piazza.

Shop for local arts and crafts and souvenirs, especially during the holidays when the markets light up the entire plaza.

Catch the last rays of the sunset as the magic hour sets a misty, enchanting aura over the fountains and the facades. 

Best Times to Visit Piazza Navona

Morning: The tranquility is ideal for photography and savoring a quiet espresso descent.

Evening: The energy feels like music, lights, and performances. 

December: The Piazza Navona Christmas Market is truly one of the most celebrated traditions of Rome.

How to gett to Piazza Navona

By Foot: It's in the center, a short walk from Pantheon or Campo de' Fiori.

By Bus: The 30, 70, 81, 87, and 492 bus lines stop nearby.

By Metro: The closest Metro stations are Spagna (Line A) and Barberini; both stations are followed by a 10- to 15-minute walk.

Tips for Visiting Piazza Navona

Get away from the hustle and bustle by arriving either early or late.

Choose your restaurants wisely; some restaurants can be tourist traps. Check reviews before going.

Hire a guide to reach an understanding of the art, architecture, and history.

Stay alert for pickpockets, especially in busy areas.