Piazza del Popolo — Attraction in Rome

Nevertheless, from the square, thanks to an optical effect, they look identical.On the opposite side of the square stands the splendid Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo, dating back to the 15th century, enriched and modified over the centuries by the intervention of numerous architects and artists.It preserves extraordinary masterpieces: the Chigi Chapel was built from 1513 on a design by Raffaello and completed between 1652 and 1656 with the intervention of Bernini; the Cerasi Chapel houses the Crucifixion of St. Peter and the Conversion of St. Paul by Caravaggio, and the altarpiece depicting the Assumption of the Virgin by Annibale Carracci; the Della Rovere Chapel, realized by Andrea Bregno between the end of the 15th and the beginning of the 16th century, is decorated with magnificent frescoes attributed to Pinturicchio and his workshop.According to a legend, on the Colle degli Ortuli where the Basilica stands, there is the cursed tomb of the suicide emperor Nero, whose ashes were buried in a porphyry urn under a walnut. Near the main altar of the church, some bas-reliefs recall the story.Following a new urban layout, designed by the architect Giuseppe Valadier in the early 19th century, the new Piazza del Popolo looks like a large ellipse around the Egyptian obelisk, embellished and framed by sculptures, gardens and fountains.In the centre of the square is the fontana dei Leoni (fountain of the Lions) by Valadier himself, which replaces the 16th-century fountain by Della Porta and surrounds the Flaminio obelisk. It has round travertine basins, dominated by Egyptian-style white marble lions, from whose mouths the water jets flow.At the centre of the eastern hemicycle is the fontana della Dea Roma (fountain of the Goddess Roma), adorned with a large sculptural group. A statue of the armed goddess is flanked by two statues depicting the rivers Tiber and Aniene, and the she-wolf nursing the twins at its foot. Behind is the Pincio, a wonderful urban walk from whose terrace you can admire a spectacular sunset.In the centre of the opposite hemicycle, stands the imposing sculptural group adorning the fontana del Nettuno (fountain of Neptune): a statue of the god with the trident in his right hand, at whose feet are placed two tritons with dolphins.The sculpture dominates a large travertine semicircular basin above which a shell valve collects the water poured from a small basin at the top.Both fountains of the two hemicycles were designed by Valadier and sculpted by Giovanni Ceccarini.The layout of the square was completed by the two fontane sarcofago (sarcophagus fountains), in replacement of a drinking trough and a washtub which until the 18th century gave the area a rural appearance. One fountain is leaning against the church of Santa Maria del Popolo, has the portrait of two spouses, and dates back to the middle of the 3rd century AD. The other one is positioned close to the opposite "Giacomo Acqua" barracks, formerly of the papal guards. It has a decoration with a male figure in a toga and can be dated to the last quarter of the same century.Until the 19th century, the square was one of the places where capital executions took place, at the hands of the famous executioner Mastro Titta. As recalled by a plaque affixed to the barracks in 1909, the two Carbonari Angelo Targhini and Leonida Montanari were guillotined here, "guilty of lese majesty and wounds...

I recently had the privilege of visiting Vatican City in Rome, Italy, and it turned out to be an experience of a lifetime. This small independent city-state, nestled within the heart of Rome, captivated me with its grandeur, historical significance, and spiritual ambiance. Vatican City truly embodies a timeless beauty that seamlessly blends art, architecture, and faith.

One of the first things that struck me upon entering Vatican City was its sheer magnificence. The colossal St. Peter's Square, designed by Bernini, welcomed me with open arms and left me in awe of its grand scale. The square is adorned with beautiful fountains and surrounded by majestic colonnades, creating a sense of harmony and tranquility. Witnessing the square come alive during the papal audience was an experience filled with joy and a shared sense of devotion among visitors from around the world.

As I ventured into St. Peter's Basilica, I was overwhelmed by its splendor and breathtaking architectural marvels. The intricate details of the basilica's interior, including Michelangelo's Pieta and the awe-inspiring dome designed by the same master, left me speechless. The divine ambiance, combined with the soft glow of the sun filtering through the stained glass windows, created an ethereal atmosphere that touched my soul.

Exploring the Vatican Museums was like embarking on a fascinating journey through time. From the opulent Raphael Rooms to the mesmerizing Gallery of Maps, every corner of the museums was a testament to the Vatican's rich history and artistic heritage. The pinnacle of the museum visit was, without a doubt, the Sistine Chapel. Standing beneath Michelangelo's iconic ceiling, I felt a profound sense of awe, contemplating the mastery of his brushstrokes and the profound religious themes depicted.

The Vatican Gardens offered a serene retreat from the bustling crowds. The meticulously manicured landscapes, adorned with fragrant flowers and tranquil fountains, provided a peaceful sanctuary where I could reflect on my journey. The panoramic view of the city from the top of the dome, reached through a thrilling climb, rewarded me with a breathtaking vista that showcased the majestic beauty of Rome.

I must mention the warmth and hospitality of the Vatican City staff and locals. Despite being a popular tourist destination, I encountered friendly faces at every turn, willing to assist and share their knowledge. Their passion for their city was contagious and added an extra layer of authenticity to my experience.

Visiting Vatican City awakened my senses and deepened my appreciation for art, history, and spirituality. It is a place that transcends time, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its rich cultural tapestry and connect with their innermost beliefs. Whether you are a devout pilgrim, a history enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, Vatican City is an absolute must-visit destination that will leave an indelible mark on your soul.

In summary, my visit to Vatican City was a truly transformative experience. Its grandeur, artistry, and spiritual significance surpassed my expectations and left me in awe. I highly recommend this enchanting destination to anyone seeking a profound connection with history,...

The Piazza del Popolo, one of Rome’s most majestic and historically charged squares, lies at the northern gate of the city, where the ancient Via Flaminia once welcomed travelers and pilgrims arriving from the north. Its name, meaning “Square of the People,” may derive from the nearby Church of Santa Maria del Popolo—built over what was once believed to be the tomb of Emperor Nero—or from the Latin populus, referring to the poplar trees that once grew in the area.

The square as we see it today is the result of an 19th-century neoclassical redesign by Giuseppe Valadier, who masterfully transformed it into an oval masterpiece of harmony and proportion. At its heart rises the Flaminio Obelisk, a 24-meter Egyptian monolith brought to Rome by Emperor Augustus from Heliopolis in 10 BC—making it one of the oldest and tallest obelisks in the city. Surrounding the obelisk are four graceful lions’ fountains, their water flowing into circular basins that enhance the sense of balance and serenity.

On the southern side stand the famous “twin churches”—Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Santa Maria in Montesanto—commissioned by Pope Alexander VII and designed by Carlo Rainaldi and Bernini in the 17th century. Though they appear identical, each has subtle differences in layout to adapt to the irregular shape of the square and the converging roads of the Tridente: Via del Corso, Via del Babuino, and Via di Ripetta, which lead toward the heart of Rome’s historic center.

To the north stands Porta del Popolo, the grand city gate rebuilt in 1561 by Pope Pius IV and designed by Michelangelo’s pupil, Nanni di Baccio Bigio. Its inner façade, added in 1655 by Bernini, greeted Queen Christina of Sweden upon her celebrated arrival after converting to Catholicism—a moment still remembered as one of the most elegant receptions in Roman history.

Above the square rises the verdant Pincio Terrace, from which visitors can admire breathtaking views of Piazza del Popolo, the domes of Rome, and St. Peter’s Basilica in the distance—especially enchanting at sunset when the city glows in warm golden hues.

Over the centuries, the piazza has served as a stage for royal ceremonies, public executions, military parades, and grand festivals. Today it remains a vibrant gathering place for Romans and visitors alike—an open-air theatre of art, architecture, and history that continues to embody the grandeur and spirit of the...