Piazza del Popolo is one of the most famous squares in Rome and a popular spot for tourists. This spacious and impressive square is surrounded by historic buildings and sights. In this blog you will read all about its history, what to see and how to get there.
History of Piazza del Popolo
Piazza del Popolo, which means “Square of the People,” was redesigned in the 16th century and took its current form in the 19th century. For centuries, the square was the northern gateway to Rome, welcoming travelers entering the city via the Via Flaminia. At the center of the square is an Egyptian obelisk from the time of Pharaoh Ramses II, which originally stood in Heliopolis and was later brought to Rome by Emperor Augustus.
What is there to see in Piazza del Popolo?
The square is home to several attractions:
1. The Egyptian obelisk: This 24-meter-high obelisk is at the center of the square.
2. The twin churches: The churches Santa Maria in Montesanto and Santa Maria dei Miracoli stand on the south side of the square and are very similar.
3. Santa Maria del Popolo Church: An extraordinary church with works of art by Caravaggio and Bernini.
4. The city gate Porta del Popolo: The historic gateway to Rome, designed by Bernini.
5. The view from Pincio Hill: From the nearby Pincio terrace, you have a great view of the square and the city.
The fountains of Piazza del Popolo
Piazza del Popolo is embellished by four impressive fountains:
1 Fontana dell’Obelisco: Located in the center of the square around the Egyptian obelisk. This fountain is surrounded by four lion statues from which water flows.
2 Fontana del Nettuno: On the north side of the square is this fountain with a statue of Neptune flanked by two Tritons.
3 Fontana della Dea di Roma: On the south side of the square stands this fountain with a statue of the goddess Roma, flanked by allegorical figures representing the rivers Tiber and Aniene.
These fountains add grandeur to the square and are a popular place to take a break.
Where is Piazza del Popolo located?
The square is located in the north of Rome’s historic center, at the beginning of the famous shopping street Via del Corso. It is adjacent to Villa Borghese, a large park where you can stroll.
How do you get to Piazza del Popolo?
Piazza del Popolo is easily accessible by public transportation:
1. Metro: Take line A and get off at the Flaminio – Piazza del Popolo stop. 2.Bus: Several bus lines stop at the square. 3.On foot: From the Spanish Steps, it is only a 10-minute walk.
When is the best time to visit Piazza del Popolo?
Piazza del Popolo is a beautiful destination all year round, but the best times to visit the square are:
1. Spring (March-May): The weather is mild and pleasant, ideal for exploring the square and surrounding areas without the extreme heat of summer.
2. Autumn (September-November): Temperatures are still pleasant, and it is often less crowded than in the summer months.
3. Early morning or late afternoon: During the day it can be crowded with tourists, especially in high season. By arriving early or late in the day, you will enjoy the atmosphere in peace.
4. In the evening: The square is beautifully lit, making for an atmospheric experience.
Our opinion of Piazza del Popolo
After several visits to Piazza del Popolo, we can conclude that it is absolutely worth it. The atmosphere in the square is impressive, and it is a great place to take a break during a day of sightseeing in Rome. Especially the view from Pincio Hill and the historic buildings make this square special.
One small downside is that the square can be very crowded at times, especially in high season. This can make it more difficult to quietly enjoy the surroundings. Nonetheless, it remains an iconic spot not to be missed during your visit to Rome.
Three tips for visiting Piazza del Popolo
Based on our experience, we share three practical tips to make your visit as enjoyable as possible
1. Visit the square at sunset:
From Pincio Hill, you have a beautiful view of the square as the sun sets. This creates a magical atmosphere and beautiful photos.
2. Take time to see the Santa Maria del Popolo Church:
This church is sometimes overlooked by tourists, but the works of art by Caravaggio and Bernini make it a hidden gem.
3. Avoid the crowds in high season:
If you want to enjoy the square quietly, visit it early in the morning or outside the tourist high season.
Special offers for a city trip to Rome
Are you planning a city trip to RomeRome and want to visit the main sights and attractions? Then take advantage of the offers below!
Piazza del Popolo in Rome: Is it worth a visit?
Piazza del Popolo is one of the most famous squares in Rome and a popular spot for tourists. This spacious and impressive square is surrounded by historic buildings and sights. In this blog you will read all about its history, what to see and how to get there.
History of Piazza del Popolo
Piazza del Popolo, which means “Square of the People,” was redesigned in the 16th century and took its current form in the 19th century. For centuries, the square was the northern gateway to Rome, welcoming travelers entering the city via the Via Flaminia. At the center of the square is an Egyptian obelisk from the time of Pharaoh Ramses II, which originally stood in Heliopolis and was later brought to Rome by Emperor Augustus.
What is there to see in Piazza del Popolo?
The square is home to several attractions:
1. The Egyptian obelisk: This 24-meter-high obelisk is at the center of the square.
2. The twin churches: The churches Santa Maria in Montesanto and Santa Maria dei Miracoli stand on the south side of the square and are very similar.
3. Santa Maria del Popolo Church: An extraordinary church with works of art by Caravaggio and Bernini.
4. The city gate Porta del Popolo: The historic gateway to Rome, designed by Bernini.
5. The view from Pincio Hill: From the nearby Pincio terrace, you have a great view of the square and the city.
The fountains of Piazza del Popolo
Piazza del Popolo is embellished by four impressive fountains:
1 Fontana dell’Obelisco: Located in the center of the square around the Egyptian obelisk. This fountain is surrounded by four lion statues from which water flows.
2 Fontana del Nettuno: On the north side of the square is this fountain with a statue of Neptune flanked by two Tritons.
3 Fontana della Dea di Roma: On the south side of the square stands this fountain with a statue of the goddess Roma, flanked by allegorical figures representing the rivers Tiber and Aniene.
These fountains add grandeur to the square and are a popular place to take a break.
Where is Piazza del Popolo located?
The square is located in the north of Rome’s historic center, at the beginning of the famous shopping street Via del Corso. It is adjacent to Villa Borghese, a large park where you can stroll.
How do you get to Piazza del Popolo?
Piazza del Popolo is easily accessible by public transportation:
1. Metro: Take line A and get off at the Flaminio – Piazza del Popolo stop.
2.Bus: Several bus lines stop at the square.
3.On foot: From the Spanish Steps, it is only a 10-minute walk.
When is the best time to visit Piazza del Popolo?
Piazza del Popolo is a beautiful destination all year round, but the best times to visit the square are:
1. Spring (March-May): The weather is mild and pleasant, ideal for exploring the square and surrounding areas without the extreme heat of summer.
2. Autumn (September-November): Temperatures are still pleasant, and it is often less crowded than in the summer months.
3. Early morning or late afternoon: During the day it can be crowded with tourists, especially in high season. By arriving early or late in the day, you will enjoy the atmosphere in peace.
4. In the evening: The square is beautifully lit, making for an atmospheric experience.
Our opinion of Piazza del Popolo
After several visits to Piazza del Popolo, we can conclude that it is absolutely worth it. The atmosphere in the square is impressive, and it is a great place to take a break during a day of sightseeing in Rome. Especially the view from Pincio Hill and the historic buildings make this square special.
One small downside is that the square can be very crowded at times, especially in high season. This can make it more difficult to quietly enjoy the surroundings. Nonetheless, it remains an iconic spot not to be missed during your visit to Rome.
Three tips for visiting Piazza del Popolo
Based on our experience, we share three practical tips to make your visit as enjoyable as possible
1. Visit the square at sunset:
From Pincio Hill, you have a beautiful view of the square as the sun sets. This creates a magical atmosphere and beautiful photos.
2. Take time to see the Santa Maria del Popolo Church:
This church is sometimes overlooked by tourists, but the works of art by Caravaggio and Bernini make it a hidden gem.
3. Avoid the crowds in high season:
If you want to enjoy the square quietly, visit it early in the morning or outside the tourist high season.
Special offers for a city trip to Rome
Are you planning a city trip to Rome Rome and want to visit the main sights and attractions? Then take advantage of the offers below!
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