Overview:

Piazza Navona is one of the most popular squares in Rome renowned for its architectural beauty and its several famous fountains. Located in the historic center of Rome, the square was originally built as a stadium, the Campus Agonale, for athletics by Emperor Domitian. It later became a public square controlled by the papacy, and it has since remained a center for people gathering and outdoor festivities. The square is decorated by several fountains, including the Fountain of the Four Rivers by Bernini, the Fontana del Moro, and the Fontana del Nettuno. Additionally, the Piazza Navona is home to many restaurants, gelaterie, and street artists who entertain the people of Rome. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Italy
Prominent Features:

1. Fountain of Neptune: a magnificent fountain located at the center of Piazza Navona, built in the late 16th century. 2. Three Traditional Fountains: three beautiful and grand fountains, the Fountain of the Rivers, the Fountain of the Moor, and the Fountain of the Dragons. 3. St. Agnes in Agony Church: a beautiful baroque church, famous for its magnificent facade and oval dome. 4. Palazzo Pamphilj: a palace located at one end of the square, built in the 17th century by the Pamphilj family. 5. Obelisk of Domitian: a majestic 24m high Egyptian obelisk, decorating the center of the square. 6. St. Agnes’s Church Square: once part of the Pamphilj palace complex, now a delightful square surrounded by ancient walls. 7. Sant’Antonio da Padova in Palatio Church: a small church located in the center of the square, built in the 17th century. 8. Tomb of St. Pantaleo: an ornate 17th century statue located in the center of the square. 9. Street Performances: often taking place in the center of the square, there are different street performers such as musicians, painters, jugglers, and mimes. 10. Restaurants and Cafés: the square is packed with cafés and restaurants – popular spots for an afternoon cappuccino or a nighttime dinner plate. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Italy.

History:

The origins of the Piazza Navona, located in the heart of Rome, date back to the 1st century AD, when the area was the site of the Stadium of Domitian, built by Emperor Domitian. Since then, the area has seen a variety of transformations. In the 16th century, Pope Innocent X turned the site into an oblong piazza and built the famous Four Fountains, which still decorate the square to this day. The Baroque-style buildings in Piazza Navona are the work of 18th-century architects, including Borromini. The many tiny palaces house art galleries, cafes and restaurants, creating a vibrant atmosphere that is unique to the area. Over the centuries, Piazza Navona has been at the center of many important events, such as seasonal festivals and Roman carnivals. The square is today considered one of Rome's most popular tourist destinations, and continues to attract thousands of visitors each year. Visit one of the famous monuments of Italy with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Piazza Navona was originally built on the former site of a Roman stadium built by Domitian in the 1st century. 2. On the south end of the square lies the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi (Fountain of the Four Rivers), which was designed by Bernini in 1651 as a tribute to Pope Innocent X. 3. The piazza was once used as a horse racing track in 1665. 4. The piazza is surrounded by numerous restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a popular place for locals and tourists. 5. On the fourth Sunday of every month, an international flea market is held in the centre of the piazza. 6. In the evening, the piazza is lit up with colourful explosions as part of an annual fireworks show. 7. The piazza also hosts several musical performances every month. 8. It is one of the most popular venues for weddings in Rome. One of the historical monuments of Italy, it tells the story of a bygone era