Piazza Navona is one of the most famous and visited squares in Rome. Located in the heart of the city, the square attracts thousands of tourists every year due to its rich history, impressive architecture and lively atmosphere. In this blog we give you important information about the square, from its history and sights to useful tips for your visit. This will give you a good overview of what Piazza Navona has to offer.
History of Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona has a rich history dating back to ancient Rome. The square was built on the site of the former stadium of Domitian, which was used for athletic competitions in the 1st century AD. The square’s current design dates back to the 17th century, when it was redesigned in the Baroque style. The famous architect Francesco Borromini worked on the churches and buildings surrounding the square, contributing to the iconic look we know today.
What is there to see in Piazza Navona?
Piazza Navona is not only a beautiful square, but also a place full of attractions. The Baroque buildings surrounding the square, such as the Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone, are an important part of its charm.
The square is also a bustling hub of activity, with street performers, artists and musicians adding to its atmosphere. It is the perfect place to enjoy a drink on a terrace while taking in the lively atmosphere and the impressive view of the fountains and surrounding buildings.
The fountains in Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is famous for its three impressive fountains, each an important part of the square’s charm.
1. Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi: Designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, this fountain is the largest and most iconic in the square. Located in the center, it represents the four main rivers of the world: the Danube, the Ganges, the Nile and the La Plata. It is a masterpiece of Baroque sculpture and symbolizes the unity of the four continents.
2. Fontana del Moro: Located on the south side of the square, this fountain was designed by Giacomo della Porta. It shows a Moorish figure holding a dolphin, which gives it a lively and dynamic character. It is one of the oldest fountains in the square, originally built in the 16th century.
3. Fontana di Nettuno: Located on the north side of Piazza Navona, the Fontana di Nettuno was also designed by Giacomo della Porta. It depicts the god Neptune surrounded by a dolphin and an octopus. This fountain adds an element of seawater and mysticism to the square.
Where is Piazza Navona located in Rome?
Piazza Navona is located in the Sant’Eustachio district, in the historic center of Rome, close to other famous sights such as the Pantheonand the Trevi Fountain.
How to get to Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is easily accessible by public transportation and on foot.
1. Metro: The nearest metro stop is Spagna (line A), about a 15-minute walk from the square.
2. Bus: Several bus lines, such as lines 40 and 64, stop near Piazza Navona.
3. On foot: Because the square is centrally located, it is easily accessible on foot from other popular sights in Rome.
When is the best time to visit Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is a popular year-round destination. The best time to visit the square is early in the morning or later in the evening, when it is less crowded. In the summer months, the square can be quite crowded, so off-season is often quieter. In addition, the square is beautifully lit at night, making the fountains and buildings even more impressive.
Our opinion of Piazza Navona
During our city trips to Rome, we visited Piazza Navona several times. The square always offers a lively atmosphere, especially in the early morning or later in the evening, when it is less crowded. The impressive fountains and baroque buildings surrounding the square never fail to fascinate us. It is a nice place to take a break and enjoy the atmosphere, with numerous cafes and terraces nearby.
One downside is that it can be quite crowded in the afternoon, especially in the summer months. This can make it difficult to quietly explore the square or enjoy the surroundings. Despite this, Piazza Navona remains one of the highlights of our visits to Rome.
5 tips for visiting Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is one of the most famous squares in Rome and attracts many visitors every year. To make the most of your visit, we have collected four practical tips:
1. Visit the square early in the morning or later in the evening
In the early morning or later in the evening, the square is quieter, allowing you to explore the fountains and surrounding area in peace without the hustle and bustle of noon.
2. Take time to admire the fountains
The three fountains in the square, including the famous Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, are a highlight. Be sure to take plenty of time to enjoy the impressive details and take some pictures.
3. Avoid the crowds in the summer
Piazza Navona can be very crowded during the summer months, especially in the afternoon. If you want to avoid the crowds, it is wise to come during off-season or visit the square during quiet hours.
4. Keep in mind the higher prices of cafes and restaurants
The cafes and restaurants around Piazza Navona tend to be more expensive than those in less touristy areas of Rome. If you’re looking for cheaper options, it’s better to find a café or restaurant a little further from the square.
5. Watch your stuff
As with many tourist spots in Rome, it is important to stay alert to your personal belongings. Keep a close eye on your bag and be wary of pickpockets, especially when it is crowded.
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 Navona in Rome: Is it worth a visit?
Piazza Navona is one of the most famous and visited squares in Rome. Located in the heart of the city, the square attracts thousands of tourists every year due to its rich history, impressive architecture and lively atmosphere. In this blog we give you important information about the square, from its history and sights to useful tips for your visit. This will give you a good overview of what Piazza Navona has to offer.
History of Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona has a rich history dating back to ancient Rome. The square was built on the site of the former stadium of Domitian, which was used for athletic competitions in the 1st century AD. The square’s current design dates back to the 17th century, when it was redesigned in the Baroque style. The famous architect Francesco Borromini worked on the churches and buildings surrounding the square, contributing to the iconic look we know today.
What is there to see in Piazza Navona?
Piazza Navona is not only a beautiful square, but also a place full of attractions. The Baroque buildings surrounding the square, such as the Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone, are an important part of its charm.
The square is also a bustling hub of activity, with street performers, artists and musicians adding to its atmosphere. It is the perfect place to enjoy a drink on a terrace while taking in the lively atmosphere and the impressive view of the fountains and surrounding buildings.
The fountains in Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is famous for its three impressive fountains, each an important part of the square’s charm.
1. Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi: Designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, this fountain is the largest and most iconic in the square. Located in the center, it represents the four main rivers of the world: the Danube, the Ganges, the Nile and the La Plata. It is a masterpiece of Baroque sculpture and symbolizes the unity of the four continents.
2. Fontana del Moro: Located on the south side of the square, this fountain was designed by Giacomo della Porta. It shows a Moorish figure holding a dolphin, which gives it a lively and dynamic character. It is one of the oldest fountains in the square, originally built in the 16th century.
3. Fontana di Nettuno: Located on the north side of Piazza Navona, the Fontana di Nettuno was also designed by Giacomo della Porta. It depicts the god Neptune surrounded by a dolphin and an octopus. This fountain adds an element of seawater and mysticism to the square.
Where is Piazza Navona located in Rome?
Piazza Navona is located in the Sant’Eustachio district, in the historic center of Rome, close to other famous sights such as the Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain.
How to get to Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is easily accessible by public transportation and on foot.
1. Metro: The nearest metro stop is Spagna (line A), about a 15-minute walk from the square.
2. Bus: Several bus lines, such as lines 40 and 64, stop near Piazza Navona.
3. On foot: Because the square is centrally located, it is easily accessible on foot from other popular sights in Rome.
When is the best time to visit Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is a popular year-round destination. The best time to visit the square is early in the morning or later in the evening, when it is less crowded. In the summer months, the square can be quite crowded, so off-season is often quieter. In addition, the square is beautifully lit at night, making the fountains and buildings even more impressive.
Our opinion of Piazza Navona
During our city trips to Rome, we visited Piazza Navona several times. The square always offers a lively atmosphere, especially in the early morning or later in the evening, when it is less crowded. The impressive fountains and baroque buildings surrounding the square never fail to fascinate us. It is a nice place to take a break and enjoy the atmosphere, with numerous cafes and terraces nearby.
One downside is that it can be quite crowded in the afternoon, especially in the summer months. This can make it difficult to quietly explore the square or enjoy the surroundings. Despite this, Piazza Navona remains one of the highlights of our visits to Rome.
5 tips for visiting Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is one of the most famous squares in Rome and attracts many visitors every year. To make the most of your visit, we have collected four practical tips:
1. Visit the square early in the morning or later in the evening
In the early morning or later in the evening, the square is quieter, allowing you to explore the fountains and surrounding area in peace without the hustle and bustle of noon.
2. Take time to admire the fountains
The three fountains in the square, including the famous Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, are a highlight. Be sure to take plenty of time to enjoy the impressive details and take some pictures.
3. Avoid the crowds in the summer
Piazza Navona can be very crowded during the summer months, especially in the afternoon. If you want to avoid the crowds, it is wise to come during off-season or visit the square during quiet hours.
4. Keep in mind the higher prices of cafes and restaurants
The cafes and restaurants around Piazza Navona tend to be more expensive than those in less touristy areas of Rome. If you’re looking for cheaper options, it’s better to find a café or restaurant a little further from the square.
5. Watch your stuff
As with many tourist spots in Rome, it is important to stay alert to your personal belongings. Keep a close eye on your bag and be wary of pickpockets, especially when it is crowded.
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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