About Piazza Del Popolo
Things to see at Piazza Del Popolo
Santa Maria del Popolo is one of the oldest churches in Rome located in Piazza Del Popolo, and is known for its beautiful architecture. The church is located on the site of a former pagan temple, and it is believed that the church was built on the site of the tomb of the Roman emperor Nero. The church is home to two of the most famous paintings by the Italian artist Raphael, while also housing his tomb. Santa Maria del Popolo is also home to the tomb of the Italian poet Dante Alighieri.
Among the top attractions to visit at Piazza Del Popolo in Rome, the Twin Churches stand out. Situated on the northern side of this public square, the Gemelli churches, also known as twin churches, mark the division of three roads: Via Ripetta, Via del Corso, and Via del Babuino. Though they are called twin churches, these buildings are not completely identical but share a striking resemblance, serving as a stunning gateway to the city.
Ensure that you take in the splendor of Via Margutta, a charming and more tranquil street within the renowned Piazza del Popolo during your visit. This street is one of the three roads that create a trident leading into Rome's entrance. Dotted with art galleries, cafes, and restaurants, Via Margutta is a beloved spot for both residents and visitors. Notably, it houses the famous "House of the Lions," where the renowned artist Raphael resided in the early 16th century.
The Fountain of Neptune and Goddess of Rome stands as a prominent attraction in Piazza del Popolo. Designed by Bernini, this fountain showcases a remarkable statue of Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, placed atop a granite column, alongside the statue of Dea Roma, the goddess of Rome. These magnificent sculptures are positioned on opposite sides of the piazza and symbolize the significance of bringing water to the continuously growing city.
The major centrepiece of Piazza Del Popolo roma is the Flaminio Obelisk. Flanked by her guardian lions, this Egyptian obelisk is a magnificent structure in the piazza, with a height of almost 73 feet. It dates back to 1300 BC, and is said to have been kept in Heliopolis up until 10 BC and was moved to the piazza in 1589. The statue is inscribed with hieroglyphs that tell the story of how the obelisk was erected in honour of the Pharaoh Ramses II.
The piazza del Popolo is home to three churches, located in its southern and northern perimeters. The main church here is the Santa Maria del Popolo, which also gives the piazza its name, and is located to its northeast. The other churches include the Santa Maria dei Miracoli and the Santa Maria in Montesanto, both of which are located in the south of the piazza. These churches are also popularly known as the Twin Churches of Piazza del Popolo.
For More Info Checkout: Churches in Piazza del Popolo
History of Piazza Del Popolo
The Piazza Del Popolo is one of the largest and busiest squares in Rome and has a long and rich history dating back to Ancient Roman times. In Ancient Rome, the square was known as the Campus Martius and was used for military training and horse races. It was also the site of the Ara Pacis, a monument erected in honour of the Emperor Augustus. The square was rebuilt in the 15th century and renamed Piazza del Popolo, or "People's Square".
It was in 68 AD when the Roman emperor Nero died and was buried under a walnut tree here, which began the tales of the piazza being cursed. Nero’s corpse was exhumed and his ashes were scattered in the Tiber river in 1100 AD, after which the Santa Maria del Popolo was built here. Up until the year 1826, Piazza del Popolo was most significant for being the site of public executions.
Today, Piazza del Popolo is located at the north end of the city and was once the site of executions. The piazza is surrounded by beautiful architecture, including the Church of Santa Maria del Popolo, the Flaminio Obelisk, and the Via del Corso.
For More Info Checkout: History of Piazza del Popolo
Architecture of Piazza del Popolo
The Piazza Del Popolo roma had a very different structure several hundred years back. This piazza got its current architecture during a period of 11 years from 1811 to 1822, with its design created by the Roman architect Giuseppe Valadier. The plaza has a neoclassical appeal, in addition to an oval-shaped structure.
It is also surrounded by boundaries, as opposed to the trapezoidal structure that it had in the past. A lot of traditional Roman elements, with inspirations from St. Peter’s Square have also been incorporated in the architecture of piazza del Popolo.
To enhance the look of the Flaminio Obelisk, several fountains and the two Egyptian lion statues were added to the plaza in 1818. Additionally, the Porta del Popolo was designed and established in 1655 by Bernini to welcome the Queen of Sweden here, after she converted to Roman Catholicism.
Plan Your Visit
Timings:- Piazza del Popolo is open between 07:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 04:00 p.m. to 07:00 p.m. from Mondays to Fridays, and then between 07:30 a.m. to 09:00 p.m. on Saturdays. It remains open from 07:30 a.m. to 01:30 p.m. and 04:30 p.m. to 07:30 p.m. on Sundays.
Location:- The location of Piazza del Popolo in: Piazza del Popolo, 00187 Roma RM, Italy.
By Car:You can easily avail a car or taxi ride to get to Piazza del Popolo from different parts of Rome.
By Bus:When coming to the Piazza del Popolo by bus, you can avail yourself of bus numbers 88, 95, 117, 119, 490 or 495. It will take you around 20 to 30 ins to reach the location.
By Train:You can also take the direct train operated by Leonardo Express from the Rome airport to Piazza del Popolo, or avail a ride in Metro Line A, to get off at the Spagna or Flaminio stations.
The best time to visit Piazza Del Popolo roma is during the autumn season in Rome, between the months of September and November when there are relatively lesser crowds in the city. This will give you a chance to enjoy exploring the piazza more comfortably, especially since the days remain sunny, and pleasant.
Additionally, when planning to visit the Piazza del Popolo, the best time of the day to come here would be during the late afternoon or evenings, when the square is lit up by the setting sun. This is a beautiful time to stroll around the square and take in the atmosphere.
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It is best to be dressed in modest attire since Piazza del Popolo is also a site of cultural significance.
Remember to put food packages and napkins only in the dustbins here, and avoid littering garbage.
When exploring the square, it is advisable to talk softly and not make any loud noises.
The piazza is a no-vehicle zone, so you will have to walk around a lot when exploring the attractions here.
Make sure to have ample time on hand, around 3 to 4 hours, when you visit the Piazza del Popolo, since there is a lot to see and do here.
FAQ'S
What are the most famous things to see at Piazza Del Popolo?
The Fountain of NeptuneThe Fountain of Neptune in Piazza del Popolo is a beautiful fountain that is made of marble and is decorated with Neptune, the god of the sea, and two dolphins. The fountain is a popular spot for tourists to take photos and is a great example of Renaissance architecture.
The Flaminio ObeliskThe Flaminio Obelisk was erected in the Piazza del Popolo in Rome in 1589. The obelisk was brought to Rome from Egypt by the Roman Emperor Augustus in 10 BC and originally stood in the Circus Maximus. It is the second oldest obelisk in Rome (after the Vatican Obelisk) and is made of red granite.
Santa Maria del PopoloThe Santa Maria del Popolo is a church in Piazza del Popolo, Rome. The church is best known for its two domes, which were designed by Raphael. The church is also home to a number of important works of art, including paintings by Caravaggio and Bernini.
Why is the Piazza del Popolo famous?
The Piazza Del Popolo is famous for being one of the oldest public squares in all of Rome. The name "del Popolo" literally means "of the people". The square has been a gathering place for the people of Rome since ancient times. In the Middle Ages, it was the site of public executions. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, with its three churches, the Fountain of Neptune, and the Egyptian obelisk.
Is Piazza Del Popolo worth visiting?
Yes, Piazza Del Popolo roma is definitely worth visiting. It ranks amongst the most popular landmarks in the city, and is home to some of the oldest and most magnificent structures in the region, including the Flaminio Obelisk, the Fountain of the Rivers, as well as the church of Santa Maria del Popolo, among others.
What is the best time to visit Piazza Del Popolo?
The best time of day to visit Piazza del Popolo is in the late afternoon or early evening, when the sun is beginning to set. The piazza is then bathed in a warm, golden light, and the crowds have begun to thin out. This is the perfect time to enjoy a leisurely stroll around the piazza, taking in the sights and sounds of Rome.
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Why was Piazza del Popolo built?
The Piazza del Popolo was built in the 15th century as a public space for the people of Rome. It was originally used for festivals and public executions, but it eventually became a popular gathering place for the city's residents.
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What are the nearby attractions of Piazza Del Popolo?
- Fountain of Neptune and Goddess of Rome
- Villa Medici
- Via Margutta
- Ara Pacis and Mausoleum of Augustus
- Villa Borghese and the Borghese Gallery
- Il Pincio
- Santa Maria del Popolo
- Twin Churches