Top Attractions and Activities in Piazza Navona Rome

Piazza Navona in Rome is a must-visit destination, rich in history and culture. Originally an ancient Roman stadium, it has transformed into a vibrant Baroque square, home to iconic fountains, the Church of Sant’Agnese, and the Palazzo Pamphilj. Whether you’re interested in its historical roots, stunning architecture, or lively atmosphere, Piazza Navona, Rome offers a glimpse into Rome’s layered past and artistic heritage.

Key Takeaways

• Piazza Navona, originally built as the Stadium of Domitian in 86 AD, evolved from an ancient athletic venue to a vibrant Baroque square marked by its three iconic fountains.

• The Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone and Palazzo Pamphilj are notable Baroque landmarks within Piazza Navona, showcasing rich architectural heritage and links to Pope Innocent X.

• Piazza Navona hosts various seasonal events, including a traditional Christmas market, and offers a lively atmosphere for dining, nightlife, and cultural experiences.

The Historical Roots of Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona’s history dates back to ancient Rome, initially known as the Stadium of Domitian. Built in 86 AD, this structure hosted athletic competitions for up to 20,000 spectators. Today’s piazza retains the long, oval shape of the original stadium.

The stadium fell into disrepair over the centuries, with stones repurposed for housing during the Middle Ages. In the 17th century, Pope Innocent X transformed it into a grand Baroque square, incorporating fountains inspired by ancient Roman water games, enhancing its charm and artistic allure.

Piazza Navona is now a vibrant cultural hub, showcasing its evolution from an ancient stadium to a Baroque masterpiece. Walking through the square, one can almost hear the echoes of ancient competitions and feel the artistic legacy of architects like Giacomo della Porta, Antonio della Bitta, and Gian Lorenzo Bernini.

The Three Fountains of Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona’s three iconic fountains are striking features, each with unique artistry and history. The largest and most famous is the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, or Fountain of the Four Rivers, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini between 1648 and 1651. It features four river gods representing the Nile, Ganges, Danube, and Rio de la Plata, symbolizing the four great rivers of the known continents, including Bernini’s fountain.

On the southern side of the square, you’ll find the Fontana del Moro, originally designed by Giacomo della Porta and later enhanced by Ludovico Rossi in 1654. This fountain depicts a Moor, or African, wrestling with a dolphin, surrounded by Tritons and sea creatures. The Fontana del Moro adds a touch of dynamic movement and mythical charm to the piazza.

At the northern end of Piazza Navona is the Fontana del Nettuno, also known as the Fountain of Neptune. This fountain features additional sculptures by Gregorio Zappalà, showcasing Neptune in a fierce battle with an octopus.

These fountains, combined with the vibrant atmosphere of street and portrait artists, make Piazza Navona one of Rome’s beautiful square, one of its most beautiful squares.

Sant'Agnese in Agone

Overlooking Piazza Navona stands the church of sant’agnese, one of the most significant Baroque churches in Rome. The name ‘Sant’Agnese in Agone’ refers to its location at the historical Circus Agonalis. Construction began in 1652, involving multiple architects due to design disputes, but Francesco Borromini made significant interior changes.

Commissioned by Pope Innocent X, Borromini enhanced the dome’s visual effects, blending architecture and art in Baroque Rome. The church’s facade is a Baroque masterpiece, both unique and innovative.

Inside, the church features a Greek cross layout with several altars dedicated to various saints, further adding to its spiritual and artistic significance.

Palazzo Pamphilj

Next to the Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone is the magnificent Palazzo Pamphilj, a Baroque palace linked to Pope Innocent X. It served as the Pamphilj family residence, with Pope Innocent X himself living there. The church, commissioned as a family chapel, underscores the strong connection between the palace and the church.

Today, palazzo pamphili functions as the Brazilian Embassy, maintaining its historical prominence. Visitors can admire its architectural beauty and harmonious integration with the surrounding Baroque masterpieces of Piazza Navona.

Exploring the Underground: Domitian Stadium

Beneath Piazza Navona lies the ancient Stadium of Domitian, about 5 meters underground. Built with travertine blocks and brick, it is the only known masonry stadium in the roman empire, featuring a circus-like layout of approximately 275 by 106 meters. It could host around 30,000 spectators, and archaeological excavations have revealed parts of the seating area and valuable sculpture fragments.

Opened to the public in 2014, the underground museum at Piazza Navona allows visitors to explore several excavations of these ancient works, providing a deeper understanding of the site’s historical significance. Walking through these remnants offers a glimpse into the past and a unique perspective on the evolution of this iconic square.

Artistic Highlights Near Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona’s artistic richness extends beyond its boundaries, offering visitors a treasure trove of cultural experiences. The vibrant atmosphere, influenced by Pope Innocent X’s elaborate events, makes it a hub for artistic and cultural activities.

Explore some nearby artistic highlights that you won’t want to miss.

Bramante Cloister

A stone’s throw from Piazza Navona, the Bramante Cloister exemplifies Renaissance design with classical elements and elegant arches. This serene escape offers a peaceful environment to relax and enjoy the architectural beauty, complemented by a café where visitors can enjoy refreshments while soaking in the historical ambiance.

Housing notable artworks, the Bramante Cloister adds to its cultural richness, making it a must-visit for art lovers. Whether seeking quiet reflection or a deeper appreciation of Renaissance architecture, the Bramante Cloister near Piazza Navona offers a delightful experience.

Church of Santa Maria della Pace

Another gem near Piazza Navona is the Church of Santa Maria della Pace, celebrated for its unique semi-circular porch designed by Pietro da Cortona. Built between 1500 and 1504, the church reflects architectural innovation by Donato Bramante. Its Baroque facade and artistic significance make it a standout attraction in Rome.

Inside, visitors can marvel at Raphael’s fresco, ‘Sibyls Receiving Angelic Instruction,’ in the Chigi Chapel. The Church of Santa Maria della Pace is a testament to Baroque Rome’s brilliance, offering a rich cultural experience for all who visit.

Palazzo Altemps

For a tranquil and intimate art experience, visit Palazzo Altemps, known for its peaceful atmosphere and notable statues. This museum offers a serene setting to appreciate masterpieces like the Galata Ludovisi and the Ludovisi Battle Sarcophagus. Admission is €7, with an additional €3 for special exhibitions, offering great value for a rich cultural experience.

Often less crowded than other museums, Palazzo Altemps is ideal for a relaxing visit. Its tranquil environment and impressive art collection ensure a memorable and peaceful cultural journey near Piazza Navona.

Dining and Nightlife Around Piazza Navona

As the sun sets, Piazza Navona transforms into a lively hub of dining and nightlife. The area is known for its beautiful illumination at night, particularly highlighting its famous fountains. Numerous restaurants around Piazza Navona offer traditional Italian cuisine, attracting both locals and tourists with their delectable dishes and warm ambiance.

For those looking to experience Rome’s vibrant nightlife, Piazza Navona features an array of bars and clubs that cater to various tastes. From cocktail mixing to live music events, there’s something for everyone. The lively atmosphere is further enhanced by street performers, adding to the piazza’s charm and making it a must-visit destination for night owls.

Seasonal Events and Markets

Piazza Navona Rome is not only a year-round attraction but also a hotspot for seasonal events and markets. The Christmas market at Piazza Navona has been a beloved tradition for over 200 years, attracting numerous visitors each holiday season.

These markets feature a variety of gifts, toys, handicrafts, and food, creating a festive atmosphere that enhances the piazza’s vibrant cultural scene.

Christmas Market

During the Christmas season, Piazza Navona transforms into a large christmas market, illuminating the square with festive decorations.

This tradition dates back to the fifteenth century when the public square began functioning as an open-air market in famous squares, showcasing the square’s charm at street level in the first century, reflecting its rich history.

Visitors can find:

• Christmas trees

• Cribs

• Figurines

• Handmade gadgets

• Tree decorations

• Gifts

The lively and festive atmosphere of the Christmas market is a holiday season highlight in Rome. The square’s charm is enhanced by cheerful crowds, creating a magical experience for all who visit.

Epiphany Celebrations

On January 6th, Piazza Navona becomes a lively hub for Epiphany celebrations, featuring unique local traditions and performances for children. The Befana festival, a key part of these celebrations, is highlighted by the arrival of the Befana, who brings gifts and sweets for children, similar to Santa Claus.

The Befana festival involves various activities and performances, making it delightful for families and children. The festive atmosphere and joyful celebrations ensure a memorable experience for all who participate in this cherished Roman tradition.

How to Get to Piazza Navona

Getting to Piazza Navona is easy, thanks to the various transportation options available. Walking is highly recommended to enjoy the beauty of Rome, as Piazza Navona is close to other significant sites like the Pantheon and Campo de’ Fiori.

For those using public transportation, tram line 8 serves the closest stop at Piazza Venezia, requiring a short walk to reach the square. Several bus lines, including 30, 70, 81, 87, and 492, stop at Rinascimento and Senato, which are just a minute’s walk from Piazza Navona.

The nearest metro station to Piazza Navona is ‘Barberini’, about a 1.5 km walk from the square. While taking a taxi can be comfortable, it may not be the fastest option due to heavy traffic in central Rome.

With these various transportation options, visiting Piazza Navona Rome is convenient and accessible, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Summary

Piazza Navona is a treasure trove of history, art, and culture, offering visitors a unique and enriching experience. From its ancient roots as the Stadium of Domitian to its transformation into a Baroque masterpiece, the piazza showcases the rich history and artistic legacy of Rome. Whether you’re exploring its iconic fountains, visiting nearby artistic highlights, enjoying the vibrant dining and nightlife scene, or participating in seasonal events, Piazza Navona promises a memorable journey through the heart of the Eternal City.

While exploring Piazza Navona, visitors should consider extending their journey to the nearby Palazzo Barberini, a magnificent example of Baroque architecture in Rome. This grand palace houses the Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Antica, showcasing an impressive collection of artworks from the Renaissance and Baroque periods, including masterpieces by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian. The connection between Piazza Navona and Palazzo Barberini highlights the rich tapestry of Baroque Rome, offering a seamless blend of art, history, and architecture. Both sites provide a deeper understanding of the cultural and artistic evolution that defines the Eternal City, making them essential stops on any Roman itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the historical significance of Piazza Navona?

Piazza Navona Rome holds historical significance as the site of the ancient Stadium of Domitian, constructed in 86 AD for athletic events, and later transformed into a Baroque square in the 17th century under Pope Innocent X. This transformation reflects the evolution of Roman public spaces and highlights the blend of ancient and modern influences in Italy's architectural heritage.

What are the three fountains in Piazza Navona?

The three iconic fountains in Piazza Navona are the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, Fontana del Moro, and Fontana del Nettuno, each offering unique artistic and historical significance. Their distinct features contribute to the plaza's rich cultural heritage.

What is the best way to get to Piazza Navona?

Walking is the best way to get to Piazza Navona, as it allows you to fully appreciate the beauty of Rome. Alternatively, you can take tram line 8 or several bus lines, with the 'Barberini' metro station nearby.

What seasonal events take place at Piazza Navona?

Piazza Navona is vibrant during the holiday season, particularly with a large Christmas market and the Befana festival on January 6th, offering festive decorations and performances for families.

What are some nearby artistic highlights around Piazza Navona?

Nearby artistic highlights around Piazza Navona include the Bramante Cloister, the Church of Santa Maria della Pace, and Palazzo Altemps, each providing unique cultural and artistic experiences worth exploring.