Piazza Navonna is a famous public square in Rome, Italy. Known for its distinctive architecture, open space, and three magnificent fountains, it's one of the most celebrated and popular tourist spots in the city.
Piazza Navona was built on the site of the Stadium of Domitian, constructed in 1st century AD, and follows the form of the open space of the stadium. During the Roman Empire, it was used for festivals and sporting events. Its transformation into a public square happened in the 15th century when the market was transferred here from the Capitoline Hill.
The main attractions in Piazza Navona are its three fountains: the Fountain of the Four Rivers (Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi) with the Egyptian obelisk, the Fountain of Neptune (Fontana del Nettuno), and the Moor Fountain (Fontana del Moro). Besides the fountains, the square is surrounded by majestic baroque buildings and terraces of cafes and restaurants.
The Fountain of the Four Rivers was designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in 1651. It features personifications of the rivers Nile, Ganges, Danube, and Río de la Plata, each representing a known continent of the time.
Visitors can enter several buildings around Piazza Navona, including the Church of Sant'Agnese in Agone, which overlooks the square and is a great example of Baroque architecture.
Piazza Navona is especially lively during the Christmas season, hosting a traditional Christmas market and other seasonal activities. There are also occasional art fairs and street performance events throughout the year.
No, Piazza Navona is a public square and can be visited for free at any time of the day or night. However, some individual attractions, such as museums or historical buildings around the square, might have an admission fee.
Piazza Navona can be visited year-round, but it's particularly beautiful in the late afternoon and evening when the fountains are lit up. Visiting early in the morning can be beneficial if you wish to avoid crowds. During the festive season, it has a special charm with the Christmas decorations and market.
Yes, there are many guided tours available that include Piazza Navona. These tours explain the rich history of the square and its surrounding buildings, providing an in-depth understanding of the area’s cultural and historical significance.
Absolutely, Piazza Navona is surrounded by restaurants, cafes, gelato shops, and boutiques, offering a variety of dining and shopping experiences. Alfresco dining in the square provides a lively atmosphere with views of the fountains and street performers.
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