Every turn and corner in Rome brings in surprises, and every turn has something for everyone, especially art lovers. Piazza Navona is one of the popular squares in town, right in the historic centre of Rome, that will bring out the art lover in you with its baroque-style fountains, designed by famous designers, lively atmosphere, and more.
It is among the most happening sites in Rome, featuring three of the most impressive fountains that enhance the charm of the place, and is one of the major highlights of the Piazza Navona.
Piazza Navona is a must-visit on your Europe Tour Packages, allowing you to admire the baroque architecture, stunning landscapes, beautiful fountains and enjoy the dreamy cafes and restaurants located in the square.
The history of Piazza Navona dates back to 86 CE, when the Emperor Domitian summoned the construction of this majestic square with a unique and elongated shape, probably because it used to be a stadium that could host 20,000 spectators. Pope Innocent organised water games, in which the entire square was under water.
Highlights of the Piazza Navona
The major highlights of the Piazza Navona include:
- Fountains of the Four Rivers(Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi)
Designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, the fountains of the four rivers stand as a centrepiece of the square featuring four River Gods that represents four of the major rivers of continents including Nile(Africa), the Ganges(Asia), the Danube(Europe), and the Rio de la Plata(Americas). The fountain looks absolutely stunning as it is crowned by an Egyptian Obelisk(a tapering stone pillar). It is one of the coolest things to see near Piazza Navona.
2. Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone
Francesco Borromini designed this beautiful Church with baroque designs that is dedicated to Saint Agnes. The distinctive architecture of the Church features an elliptical dome and delicate facades, which play an important role in Rome’s baroque heritage.
3. Fountain of Neptune
The fountain of Neptune, designed by Giambologna, is situated at the northern end of the square, depicting the Roman God Neptune battling a sea monster. The dramatic statues and the intricate detail make the fountain one of the best things to see near Piazza Navona.
4. Fountain Of The Moor
Fountain of the Moor, also known as Fontana del Moro in the local language, was designed by Giambologna. It is located at the southern end of the square, featuring a Moorish figure wrestling with a dolphin. This is one of the best things to see near Piazza Navona, adding charm and beauty to the place with graceful figures.
5. Museo di Roma
You can also explore Museo di Roma, which is a popular museum located in the Piazza Navona. The museum whispers tales of the history of Rome through the ages, with the help of countless paintings, sculptures, engravings, and several other works of art.
6. Street Artists
The best part about any place is its street artists, who make the place lively by showcasing their talent. Street artists, musicians, and performers are seen showing off their skills, and you will witness a large crowd gather around them, which makes it one of the best places to visit in Rome.
Best Time To Visit Piazza Navona
Timings: Since the Piazza Navona is an open space, it remains open 24 hours a day. However, there are a few shops, cafes, and restaurants that usually operate from morning till late evening, mostly 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.
The best time to visit Piazza Navona is during the daylight hours to enjoy the best time appreciating the fountains, the baroque architecture. The architecture, the grandeur are some of the reasons to visit Piazza Navona.
Entry tickets to Piazza Navona are absolutely free, as it’s a public square and visiting the Church of Sant’Agnese is free most of the time; however, in case of exhibitions and events, certain fees may be applied.
If you opt for guided tours or special visits, you may need tickets. So, free entry is another one of the reasons to visit Piazza Navona.
The most interesting aspect of Piazza Navona in Rome is that it hosts plenty of events that you can be a part of. Here are some of the Events in Piazza Navona:
- Capriccio Italiano Festival: You can enjoy events like Capriccio Italiano Festival; by Eventbrite.
- Opera: Enjoy Opera events like Opera Dinner, which includes Dining during an Opera Interlude and Viva Vivaldi.
- Christmas Markets: If you happen to be here during the time of Christmas, you can make the most of the Christmas markets here in Navona.
- Exhibitions: You can enjoy exhibitions like Leonardo da Vinci- Genius and Inventions Exhibition.
- Street Art & Parading: Piazza Navona is known for its street artists and parades.
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Rome For An Amazing Experience
How To Reach Piazza Navona?
There are several ways to reach Piazza Navona for your convenience:
- Metro: The closest metro station is Barberini(Line A), which is located just a 15-minute walk away from Piazza Navona.
- Bus: You can take line number 46, 62, 64, 81, 116, 492, 628 if you wish to travel by bus.
- Tram: If you wish to take the tram, then go for Tram Line 8, which stops quite close to Largo di Torre Argentina, which is located at a short walk from the Piazza.
