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An Introduction To Piazza Navona

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Written by Jill Kammer

Thursday, 05 June 2008

by JillKammer

Rome thrives on outdoor life. Naturally, it is obvious that Rome has a lot of museums, restaurants as well as churches, theaters and many other kinds of indoor activates. But the places to see Rome really shine are the many piazzas.

The public squares of Rome are also known as "piazzas". However you will notice right away that Rome's piazzas stand out from other famous international cities because they are filled with wonderful art and the people who love to gather outdoors to enjoy that art in many forms.

Probably the finest location of Bernini's "Fountain of the Four Rivers" can be found at Navona. Four striking sculptures that Bernini's students executed are artistically arranged around a rocky mass at the center of the fountain which holds up an obelisk. One of those stunning sculptures named "the Ganges" was created by Claude Poussin who went on to become a well known master as well.

The Fountain of the Four Rivers is a classic Roman fountain that seems alive with a rich diversity of life from a cactus to palm trees to sea monsters and dozens of wonderful pieces all mixed together artfully around the unifying column in the middle.

The story goes that to raise the funds for this expensive fountain, taxes were actually placed on bread which infuriated the citizens of Rome, from the poorest to the most wealthy. That bit of history now is a fun part of the background of the fountain to discuss over a relaxing cup of coffee as you watch the busy city go by.

You only need to cross the piazza to find the mighty sea god Triton riding a powerful dolphin in the Fountain of the Moor. This is an ideal location to watch the locals and tourists wander by or just bask in the Roman sun while you discuss where you will visit next. You will have a diverse selection of things to do in addition to taking in one of Rome's delightful outdoor fountains.

Along the rows of cafe's, restaurants and shops in the piazza, you will find dozens of stalls where merchants offer their wares and services. Here you can stop and have your portrait skilfully sketched by the many artists who populate this public gathering place.

There is plenty to do in the piazza once the sun goes down. The nightlife is active with tourists mingling with natives, beggars, mimes and artists all milling around in the crowded oval piazza. This active public space was built on an ancient circus, which was not a place where trapeze artists and elephants performed. Rather it is a circular public area where many streets come to a common intersection.

Don't miss out on the luxurious taste of a Tartufo at Tre Scalini. And you don't want to miss the ambiance at Rome's oldest existing bar, the Caffe della Pace. This is a great place to savor a Campari and some fine conversation and atmosphere. What a perfect way to prepare for a reverent visit to the Church of Sant'Agnese, just a short walk from the three famous Bernini fountains of the piazza.

The Fountain of Neptune, also known as the "Fontana dei Calderai" (translated: Fountain of the Coppersmiths) is another great artwork here for your viewing pleasure. This classic sculpture of the god of the sea Neptune killing an octopus is abundant with sea creatures such as Nereid (or sea nymphs), dolphins and sea horses. The Fountain of Neptune takes the sea creature theme of the piazza to the next level. And the rose marble that was used to create this artwork is also what was used for the doorjambs at St. Peter's.

Another option is to enjoy a stroll to the location between the Pantheon and Piazza Navona, where you can hear some soothing classical music at the Piazza Sant'Eustachio. It is also a short distance to find a bus if your next destination is a tour of the Pantheon.

You will enjoy taking advantage of the opportunity to spend time at one of Rome's famous public squares that ironically sprang to life in the public circles of Rome's piazzas.

About the Author:

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