Piazza Navona Landmark / Square

Centro, Rome –

During the day and early evening, Piazza Navona is a virtual circus of sightseers, vendors, artists, and street performers that attracts a touristy, family-oriented crowd – but it’s always worth a stroll through to check out the performances and browse the makeshift galleries set up by local artists.

The long oval piazza is flanked by fountains on either end and is almost entirely surrounded by historic buildings like the lovely Church of St. Agnes in Agony. The centerpiece of the piazza, however, is Bernini’s Baroque Fountain of the Four Rivers, an impressive monument that also serves as a central meeting point.

Though the beauty and history of the square is best admired by day, Piazza Navona is equally attractive as a backdrop for a sunset stroll, for relaxing with a glass of wine at one of the rather overpriced cafés, or for watching the parade of exuberant partygoers as they make their way to the vibrant nightlife neighborhoods nearby.