Hey travelers!
For this week’s installment of Photo Friday, I wanted to show ya’ll the beauty that is Piazza Navona in Rome, Italy.
Always a popular spot for student groups and educators, Piazza Navona is the perfect place for an evening stroll and a bite to eat. This renowned city square sits atop the site of the Stadium of Domitian that was constructed during the 1st century A.D. It was defined as a public space in the 15th century, when the city market was moved there.
It was during the pontificate of Innocent X, that the surrounding buildings were transformed into the Baroque style of architecture. It’s important for students and teachers to note the many structural and architectural creations that are throughout the piazza. In the center stands the famous Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, or Fountain of the Four Rivers, by Gian Lorenzo Bernini that is topped by the Obelisk of Domitian.
Educational groups will also see the Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone and the Pamphili Palace which was Pope Innocent X’s family palace. At the southern end of the piazza is the Fontana dei Moro, and on the northern end is the Fontana dei Neptune.
Throughout its history, Piazza Navona has hosted numerous theatrical events and other elaborate celebrations. When the pavement was raised in the 19th century, the market was moved in 1869 to the present day Campo dei Fiori. Today, a Christmas market is held in the piazza.
There’s a lot to see and experience at Piazza Navona so take some free time and get to know it better. Sit down at one of the many restaurants and take in your surroundings. There’s nothing quite like it as the sunlight begins to fade behind the buildings. Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll and admire the artists at work. I guarantee you’ll want to visit again and again on future educational student tours.
Have a great weekend,
Kate.