Piazza Navona is one of the most famous squares in the city. And I totally understand why: for me, it's one of my favourite places in Rome too.

The fountains. Baroque palaces. Cafés. Street musicians. Evening lights and an atmosphere that keeps people coming back for more.

And then there's one thing a lot of people don't even know. Piazza Navona actually stands on an ancient stadium.

Find a hotel near Piazza Navona

The square above the ancient stadium

Today's piazza was built on the site of the 1st century Stadio di Domiziano.

This is why Piazza Navona has its typical elongated oval shape.

When you look at the square from above, it immediately makes sense.

In ancient times, this was the place to be:

• athletic competitions
• sporting events
• public festivals

The stadium could accommodate approximately 30,000 spectators.

Today's Piazza Navona is therefore not "just a square". In fact, you're standing right in one of the most important sports stadiums of ancient Rome.

What to see in Piazza Navona?

These are the 3 highlights that I liked the most.

The Fountain of the Four Rivers (the main reason to visit)

In the middle of the square stands the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi.

One of Bernini's most famous works.

The fountain symbolizes the four major rivers of the then known continents:

• The Nile
• Danube
• Ganges
• Río de la Plata

And it is around this river that there is the greatest concentration of people.

Church of Sant'Agnese in Agone

Right on Piazza Navona is the Baroque church by Borromini.

• Free admission
• Beautiful interior
• often significantly less crowded than other churches in the centre

If you're already in Piazza Navona, it only takes a few minutes to visit.

Domitiana Underground Stadium

This is the part that a lot of people miss.

Under Piazza Navona is the archaeological site of the Stadio di Domiziano.

You get below the present level of the city and you'll see:

• the original walls of the stadium
• the archaeological remains of the stands
• models of the original stadium
• information about the workings of the ancient games

Unfortunately, I will not add from my own experience - during my visit the underground was closed for reconstruction.

That is why I recommend checking the current operation before visiting.

• Opening hours: every day 10:00-17:00
• Price: 9 eur
• Official website: stadiodomiziano.com

Overtourism? A lot here.

Piazza Navona is one of the most visited places in Rome.

Mostly:

• between 11:00-18:00
• on weekends
• during high season

Expect significantly more people than in the surrounding streets (but not as many as at the Trevi Fountain) and more expensive restaurants right on the square. Just walk a few metres further and you'll find great and cheap pastry shops.

• 👉 O ur tips for restaurants in Rome

Hotels overlooking the square

Piazza Navona is a very photogenic place and if you want a view right from your room, there are several apartments right on the square.

I would recommend the highly rated Migliori Collection Piazza Navona.

Look for cheaper hotels in the centre

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