Piazza del Popolo
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Piazza del Popolo - by Gabriella Clare Marino on Unsplash
Description
Piazza del Popolo is one of the main thoroughfares in Rome. It is just inside the northern gate of the Aurelian Walls and thus, historically, the first view of the city for travellers coming from the north. The piazza is at the junction of three important streets: via del Babuino, via di Ripetta, and via del Corso. It was redesigned in neo-classical style by Giuseppe Valadier in the 1820's keeping the Egyptian Obelisk of Sety I (known as the Flaminio Obelisk) at its centre. Highlights in and around the public square include the Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo with its Chigi Chapel, the Neptune Fountain, the Porta del Popolo, and the twin churches of Santa Maria in Montesanto and Santa Maria dei Miracoli. Trivia #1: "Popolo" originates from "populus", i.e. poplar tree - and not "people". Trivia #2: public executions were held there for centuries until the 1820's
Access & Transport
The Piazza is immediately south of the Flaminio metro (MEA), tram (2), train and bus stations.
Instructions & Recommendations
The best viewpoint of the piazza is from Terrazza del Pincio. From there you can visit the Villa Borghese Gardens.
Environmental & Social
All concrete but Pincio and Villa Borghese Gardens are next to it. Part of the city's architectural heritage.
Conclusion
Piazza del Popolo was historically the first sight one had entering into the city and, whilst this is no longer technically the case, it has morphed into something related: a microcosm of the city with its liveliness, fountains, churches, monuments from different periods, and imperfect street and building maintenance. An interesting square, it is.
Key positive
Several visit-worthy monuments
Visually impressive
Key negative
Lacks charm and a little dirty
Suitability
Some cobblestones but no accessibility restrictions
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
August 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 30m
est. visit time:0h 45m
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightOk
Night – aft. midnightNo