Must-See Squares of Rome

St. Peter Square

The squares of Rome are one of the main attractions of the city, as much to immerse yourself in the history of the city as to relax, meet there, have coffee or aperitif, or simply stroll there.
Here is an overview of the four unmissable squares of the eternal city.

Capitoline square

They are mostly Renaissance and Baroque, but often date back to antiquity as the Capitoline Square, on the hill of the same name, which was the religious heart of the ancient city. Its current appearance is a legacy of Michelangelo of the sixteenth century, and in the center Marcus Aurelius stands on its equestrian bronze statue. It is a marvel of harmony, where the palaces hosting the town hall and the Capitoline Museums with its important collection of ancient works are located.

Piazza Navona

Perhaps the Piazza Navona is the most emblematic squares of Rome, with its animation, exuberance and exceptional Baroque architecture. His masterpiece is the monumental Fountain of the Four Rivers carved by Bernini and topped by an obelisk. It occupies the center of the vast space that has kept the shape of the ancient Domitian Stadium.
Many artists-painters and caricaturists practice their art, while cafes and restaurants occupy part of the perimeter.

Spanish Steps

The famous Spanish Steps is the most original, dominated from the top of its elegant and baroque monumental stairs by the Church of the Trinità dei Monti. It is also one of the most romantic places in Rome, with the terraces of the staircase that are covered with flowers in spring.

Saint Peter’s square

The Saint Peter’s square is the heart of Catholicism and an impressive square, with the superb colonnades designed by Bernini who leave like two arms from the majestic basilica. Built on the tomb of the apostle, it was rebuilt in the 16th century with the help of the greatest artists of the Renaissance. It is historically and still today the center of Christianity, which daily welcomes thousands of tourists and pilgrims.

These four squares are by far the most famous in Rome, but there are many others, very varied and have their own charm. Discover them by reading a overview of the other most beautiful squares in Rome.