Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona

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One of the obelisk within the city surrounded by the center fountain.

A large, yet beautiful square that is today filled with flocks of birds, the clatter of restaurants off to the side, the amusements of crowds to street performers, artists selling their work, and the gargle of water coming from each of the fountains. This beautiful plaza has a long history as far back to Emperor Domitian (86 AD).

At that time, it was built as a stadium for competitions. However, when Pope Innocent X stepped in, he had decided that the area was better suited for a new family residence; complete with a church and fountains.

See these statues, designed by Bernini, still standing proud today. There is one set of statues with the sea god Poseidon with his trident getting ready to strike a sea creature with group of women around.

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Another fountain to draw the crowd closer.

A second fountain is a depiction of the four known main rivers of the time (this has an obelisk). The third a man is fighting a fish with water nymphs around the edge.

Though the purpose of this square has changed with years, it is a popular location to unwind, take a stroll, people watch, and enjoy your time in Rome.

Free to explore and to take pictures.