A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Piazza Navona, Italy

Located in the heart of Rome, Piazza Navona is one of the city's most famous squares and a key meeting point for both locals and tourists. Its oval shape is due to being built over the ancient Stadium of Domitian, a chariot racing stadium from the 1st century AD.

History of Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona has been a center of activity since the Roman Empire. In the 1st century AD, Emperor Domitian built a stadium here for chariot races and other public events. This stadium, known as the Stadium of Domitian, had a capacity for 30,000 spectators. The current square preserves the shape of the original stadium.

Architecture and Monuments

Piazza Navona is famous for its stunning fountains, sculptures, and Baroque architecture. The most prominent feature of the square is the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi (Fountain of the Four Rivers), designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in 1651. This fountain represents the four most important rivers of the world known at the time: the Nile, the Ganges, the Danube, and the Río de la Plata.

At the center of the square is the church of Sant'Agnese in Agone, an impressive masterpiece by architect Francesco Borromini. The church was built on the site where, according to tradition, Saint Agnes was martyred in the 4th century.

Activities in Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona is a lively and vibrant place, full of cafés, restaurants, and souvenir shops. Street artists often gather in the square to paint, draw, or play music, adding a touch of color and life to the already vibrant atmosphere.

Additionally, Piazza Navona is famous for its Christmas market, held every year from early December to early January. During this time, the square fills with stalls selling toys, sweets, Christmas decorations, and other gifts.

Surroundings of Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona is located in the historic center of Rome, surrounded by other tourist attractions. A short distance away is the Pantheon, one of the oldest and best-preserved buildings of ancient Rome. Nearby are also the Spanish Steps in Piazza di Spagna and the Trevi Fountain, one of the most famous fountains in the world.

In summary, Piazza Navona is a must-see for any visitor to Rome. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant atmosphere, this square offers an authentic Roman experience.

Gastronomic Products of Piazza Navona

• Italian Gelato

  Piazza Navona is famous for its artisanal gelaterias offering a wide variety of gelato flavors. This Italian ice cream is known for its smooth and creamy texture and intense flavor. The flavors range from classics like vanilla and chocolate to more exotic options like pistachio and tiramisu.

• Pizza al Taglio

  Pizza al taglio is a Roman specialty that can be found in the pizzerias around Piazza Navona. This pizza is baked in large rectangular trays and sold by weight, allowing customers to choose the amount they want. The crust is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and it can be topped with a variety of ingredients.

• Supplì

  Supplì is a popular Roman appetizer that can be found in the bars and restaurants of Piazza Navona. It consists of a rice ball filled with mozzarella and ragù, then breaded and fried until golden and crispy. It’s a delicious and satisfying snack that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

• Italian Coffee

  Italy is famous for its coffee, and Piazza Navona is no exception. The cafés around the square offer a variety of Italian coffees, from strong espresso to creamy cappuccino. Many of these cafés also offer pastries and other sweets to pair with the coffee.

Sports Activities in Italy (Piazza Navona)

Soccer

Italy is famous for its love of football. In Rome, you can visit the stadium of Roma and Lazio, two of the most important teams in the country. You can also enjoy a live match if your visit coincides with the football season.

Cycling

Cycling is another very popular sport in Italy. You can rent a bike and explore the city of Rome, passing through Piazza Navona and other historical sites. There are also many cycling routes on the outskirts of the city for the more adventurous.

Corriendo

Rome is an ideal city for running, with its cobblestone streets and stunning views. You can go jogging early in the morning at Piazza Navona, when the streets are less crowded. There are also several races and marathons held in the city throughout the year.

Swimming

If you visit Italy during the summer, you can enjoy a refreshing swim at the beach. Although Rome is not on the coast, there are several public pools in the city where you can swim. You can also visit the nearby beaches in Ostia or Fregene.

Nearby Places to Piazza Navona (Italy)

If you are at Piazza Navona and wish to explore further, here are some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and culinary experiences:

Campo de' Fiori, in Rome, is a vibrant open-air market during the day, famous for its fresh produce and local delicacies. At night, it transforms into a lively hub of restaurants and bars, perfect for enjoying authentic Italian cuisine.

Trastevere, in Rome, is a charming bohemian neighborhood, renowned for its picturesque cobblestone streets, vibrant nightlife, and authentic Italian cuisine. Visitors can enjoy delicious pizzas, pastas, and wines at its numerous restaurants and trattorias.