Piazza Del Popolo is one of the largest open spaces in Rome and it often lives up to its name as a the “people’s square” by playing host to large public events. At it’s centre is the second oldest egyptian obelisk in Rome (from around 10BC) surrounded by four water spewing lions. This feature is even more impressive at night when it is all illuminated.
Other highlights around the piazza include the so called “Twin” Churches which are almost identical, but not quite. Can you spot the differences? Another church in the piazza is Santa Maria del Popolo on the opposite side of the square near the old Roman gate. It’s interior is superb with painted ceilings and statues by Bernini in the Chigi Chapel. Take the steps in the north east corner of the piazza and you will climb to the beautiful Pincio Gardens which overlook the it. From here you’ll have a birds eye view of the piazza and a great view of much of Rome too.
Piazza del Popolo is featured in the Dan Brown book Angels & Demons.
LOCATION & MAP
Piazza del Popolo is at the convergence of three major roads in central Rome, Via del Corso, Via de Ripetta & Via del Babuino. All three fan out from the piazza and as such you can follow any one of them northwards to get to the piazza. Nearest Metro stop is Flaminio.
MORE ON PIAZZA DEL POPOLO
Hotels near Piazza del Popolo – Great rates from Hotels.com
Piazza del Popolo – Wikipedia
Rome Guide Books– Amazon