An Introduction To Piazza Navona

Rome is perfect for outdoor activities. Of course, the wonderful indoor activities in Rome such as the museums, theaters, churches and cafes are not to be missed. But Rome truly is at its best when you view it from those wonderful piazzas all over town.

In Italian, the word "piazza" means public square. Rome's piazzas are distinctive from other famous international cities because in every way public squares are where citizens and tourists alike gather to admire a wide variety of outdoor art.

Probably the finest location of Bernini's "Fountain of the Four Rivers" can be found at Navona. Four striking sculptures that Bernini's students executed are artistically arranged around a rocky mass at the center of the fountain which holds up an obelisk. One of those stunning sculptures named "the Ganges" was created by Claude Poussin who went on to become a well known master as well.

The Fountain of the Four Rivers is a classic Roman fountain that seems alive with a rich diversity of life from a cactus to palm trees to sea monsters and dozens of wonderful pieces all mixed together artfully around the unifying column in the middle.

The story goes that to raise the funds for this expensive fountain, taxes were actually placed on bread which infuriated the citizens of Rome, from the poorest to the most wealthy. That bit of history now is a fun part of the background of the fountain to discuss over a relaxing cup of coffee as you watch the busy city go by.

There is plenty more to see by walking to the other end of the piazza to enjoy the Fountain of the Moor which has on display the famous statue of the sea god Triton triumphantly riding a dolphin. This is another wonderful vantage point in the piazza to soak up the sunshine, to plan your next activity around Piazza Navona or just to give in to some good old fashioned people watching. The variety of things to do in addition to taking in the wonderful outdoor fountains in Rome is amazing.

Sprinkled amongst the many cafes, restaurants and shops of Piazza Navona are dozens of merchant stalls. Here you will find artists ready to sketch your portrait and capture this moment in time as you soak up the atmosphere of Rome.

There is plenty to do in the piazza once the sun goes down. The nightlife is active with tourists mingling with natives, beggars, mimes and artists all milling around in the crowded oval piazza. This active public space was built on an ancient circus, which was not a place where trapeze artists and elephants performed. Rather it is a circular public area where many streets come to a common intersection.

Don't miss out on the luxurious taste of a Tartufo at Tre Scalini. And you don't want to miss the ambiance at Rome's oldest existing bar, the Caffe della Pace. This is a great place to savor a Campari and some fine conversation and atmosphere. What a perfect way to prepare for a reverent visit to the Church of Sant'Agnese, just a short walk from the three famous Bernini fountains of the piazza.

The Fountain of Neptune, also known as the "Fontana dei Calderai" (translated: Fountain of the Coppersmiths) is another great artwork here for your viewing pleasure. This classic sculpture of the god of the sea Neptune killing an octopus is abundant with sea creatures such as Nereid (or sea nymphs), dolphins and sea horses. The Fountain of Neptune takes the sea creature theme of the piazza to the next level. And the rose marble that was used to create this artwork is also what was used for the doorjambs at St. Peter's.

Another option is to enjoy a stroll to the location between the Pantheon and Piazza Navona, where you can hear some soothing classical music at the Piazza Sant'Eustachio. It is also a short distance to find a bus if your next destination is a tour of the Pantheon.

Rome's public squares - which oddly enough are universally round - are a sight and an experience not to be missed on your next trip to Rome.

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