Places Around Piazza Navona
PIAZZA NAVONA
Piazza Navona is one of the most famous squares in Rome, true masterpiece of baroque. The shape of the square might seem a bit strange – it’s very long. This can be easily explained by the fact that earlier on that place a Domitian’s Circus was placed, and the piazza remained the shape.
One can see three splendid fountains on this square – Fountana dei Quattro Fiumi (or Fountain of the Four Rivers) in the centre, Fontana del Nettuno and Fontana del Moro each side of the square. Probably the most well-known feature of the piazza is the fountain of the Four Rivers, symbolizing the Nile, the Danube, the Ganfes, and the Rio della Plata. Each of these rivers represents the four quarters of the world.
In 15th century a city market was transformed here making it a public space. For some historical periods some theatrical shows as well as horse races were hosted there. Nowadays this place is exceptionally lively, thanks to crowds of people, numerous cafes and painters all around.