Piazza Navona - Where the art and city meets!

In Rome, one of the most important main city sights is Piazza Navona-the square of Navona. For centuries, this place has been the most popular place for street musicians, artists and painters. Nearby, it is also possible to find typical Italian cafes and restaurants. The location of Piazza Navona, is quite close to the Pantheon, Fontana di Trevi etc. 

The History of the Square

It is built on the site of the Stadium of Domitian, built in 1st century AD, and follows the form of the open space of the stadium. The ancient Romans came there to watch the agones ("games"), and hence it was known as 'Circus Agonalis' (competition arena). It is believed that over time the name changed to 'in agone' to 'navone' and eventually to 'navona'.



Fontana dei Quatro Fiumi

The Fountain of the four rivers or Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, is the largest of the three fountains standing in piazza Navona. Constructed between 1647 and 1651, the design was first commissioned to Borromini, but was later taken over by Bernini. The fountain consists of four figures, each representing a river, from the four continent, known by those times- Nile (Africa), Ganges (China), Danube (Europe) and Rio della Plata (The Americas). 


When I need to visit?

It has a great beauty either in summer or winter. Spring is the most suitable season for this square since Rome might be sometimes really cold during winter. On the other hand, due to the fact that, it is an open area, on windy and rainy days, it would be difficult the feel the atmosphere. In April, or May the tourists are gathering in that place and enjoy the ambient atmosphere with a crowded artist groups.

The Location



BONUS

Piazza Navona is featured in scenes in the 2009 movie Angels and Demons. Watch the movie, and enjoy!