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Piazza Navona

Rome's most beautiful baroque square. Marvel at Bernini's masterpiece fountains, watch street artists, and soak in the timeless atmosphere of the Eternal City.

86 AD
Stadium Origins
3
Magnificent Fountains
240m
Length
FREE
Open 24/7

A Baroque Masterpiece

Piazza Navona is one of the most celebrated examples of Baroque Roman architecture and art. Its elongated shape preserves the outline of the 1st-century Stadium of Domitian, where ancient Romans watched athletic competitions. The stadium could seat 30,000 spectators, and its underground ruins can still be visited today.

The piazza as we see it today took shape in the 17th century under Pope Innocent X (Pamphilj), who transformed it into a showcase of his family's power and prestige. He commissioned the greatest artists of the era, including Bernini and Borromini, to create a space of unparalleled beauty.

The Three Fountains

Three magnificent baroque fountains adorn the piazza, each a masterpiece of sculptural art

Fountain of Four Rivers
Bernini Masterpiece

Fountain of the Four Rivers

Bernini's 1651 masterpiece represents four great rivers: the Nile, Ganges, Danube, and Rio de la Plata. Each river is personified by a giant marble figure beneath an Egyptian obelisk.

Center of Piazza
Fountain of the Moor
16th Century

Fountain of the Moor

Located at the southern end, featuring a central Moor wrestling with a dolphin, surrounded by four Tritons. The original design by Giacomo della Porta was enhanced by Bernini in 1653.

South End
Fountain of Neptune
19th Century Addition

Fountain of Neptune

At the northern end, this fountain received its sculptural decorations in 1878, including Neptune battling an octopus. The additions were designed to balance Bernini's work.

North End
Sant'Agnese in Agone
Borromini's Masterpiece

Church of Sant'Agnese in Agone

Facing Bernini's fountain is the church designed by his rival Francesco Borromini. According to legend, Sant'Agnese was martyred on this very spot. The church's concave facade is a baroque masterpiece.

The famous rivalry between Bernini and Borromini led to many legends - some say Bernini positioned the river figures to shield their eyes from Borromini's "ugly" church. While likely apocryphal (the fountain predates the church), these stories add to the piazza's charm.

1652
Construction Started
FREE
Entry

Piazza Life

More than just monuments - Piazza Navona is a living space full of life and activity

Street Artists

Portrait painters, caricaturists, and musicians fill the piazza with creative energy. Commission a portrait or simply enjoy the performances.

Historic Cafes

Traditional cafes line the square, perfect for espresso or aperitivo. Watch the world go by from a terrazza while savoring Roman dolce vita.

Christmas Market

From December through January, the piazza hosts a magical Christmas market with nativity scenes, toys, sweets, and festive atmosphere.

Practical Information

Location
Piazza Navona, 00186 Roma RM
Opening Hours
Open 24 hours - Best at sunrise or sunset
Admission
Free access to the piazza
Getting There
Walk from Pantheon (5 min) or Bus 40/64
Nearby
Pantheon 5 min, Trevi Fountain 10 min

Discover Baroque Rome

Explore Rome's most beautiful squares and fountains with an expert guide who reveals the fascinating stories behind the art.

Baroque Rome Walk
2.5 hours
From $49
Piazzas & Fountains Tour
3 hours
From $55
Rome by Night
2.5 hours + gelato
From $69
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Nearby Attractions

Piazza Navona is perfectly located to explore more of Rome

Pantheon

Pantheon

5 min walk

Trevi Fountain

Trevi Fountain

10 min walk

Vatican

Vatican City

20 min walk

Colosseum

Colosseum

25 min walk

Experience Rome's Baroque Beauty

Piazza Navona is just the beginning. Let our expert guides take you through Rome's most stunning squares, fountains, and hidden corners.

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