The History of Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona is one of the most popular attractions among tourists and residents of Rome. The rectangular shape of the area obtained its shape from the route of the Roman stadium built by Emperor Domitian. In the square they held sports competitions much like those in the Greek Olympic Games. The piazza was not used for gladiator fights like the Coliseum. During the Renaissance the area was altered back to the way it was originally before Emperor Constant II abandoned the beautiful atmosphere. The fountain of Rivers located in the center of the square was a masterpiece of Gian Lorenzo Bernini that had been arranged by Pope Innocent X in 1651. The Danube, Ganges, Nile, Rio de la Plata are recognized as the four longest rivers in the world and represent their continents. The Fontana di Nettuno stands at the northern end of the piazza where there are sculptures of Neptune and the Nereids. At the opposite end is presented with the Fontana Del Moro, where Moor is seen fighting a dolphin.There are a number of churches surrounding the Piazza including the Church of Santa Maria dell'Anima, the Church of Santa Maria della Pace, the Palace of Sapienza, the church of Sant'Ivo alla Sapienza, and the Church of St.Luis of the French. Each church houses art from some of the most notable artists such as Bernini, Caravaggio, and Raphael.

Hutchesson, Ian. "Piazza Navona." 1. 25 May 2008 .