Unique Piazzas Not to Miss in Rome
Piazza di Pietra
As you step into the piazza, you are immediately taken aback by the grandeur of the well-preserved Corinthian columns of the temple dedicated to Emperor Hadrian, which take up almost an entire side of the square. It really is remarkable to see them standing and integrated into this piazza of modern-day Rome.
Surrounding buildings, which have evolved over centuries, coexist with the temple ruins. Cafés, wine bars, and shops dot the perimeter, offering a perfect setting to sit back, relax, and appreciate what surrounds you.
Grab a seat for a glass of wine or aperitivo cocktails before dinner. When the sun sets, backlit lights will highlight the temple and create one of the most picturesque backdrops in Rome.
Piazza Trilussa
Nestled in the heart of Rome's Trastevere district, Piazza Trilussa exudes a bohemian charm that captures the essence of the city's artistic and vibrant spirit. This lively square is a popular gathering spot, adorned with outdoor cafes, street performers, and the backdrop of historic architecture, like the Ponte Sisto which crosses the Tibre River and leads to the city centre.
Piazza Trilussa comes alive in the evenings, as locals and visitors alike pass through the square on their way to their evening plans or meet up for singing and dancing in the square.
I would make it a point to stop by and take in the sounds of music, laughter, and conversation that dominate it for a truly authentic Roman experience.
Largo di Librari
While technically not a piazza, and this square is actually so small that it is not detectable via the map on Thatch.
This adorable nook is surrounded by a cafe, a church, and a pizza restaurant. What is not to love?
Come by in the morning for a cappuccino as you face the street for some people-watching (it is a few steps away from Campo di Fiori so there is some foot traffic). Or turn to face inward to take in the sights of locals reading the newspaper and the church at the other end of the square. (My preference). It's one of the most Roman moments you can have.
Piazza di Santa Maria
Piazza Santa Maria is one of the most central gathering spots in Trastevere. The stunning Basilica di Santa Maria, is the main attraction and one of the oldest churches in Rome.
The warm, ochre-colored façade of the church and its intricate mosaics create a picturesque backdrop against the lively atmosphere of the square. A central fountain provides a hang-out spot for school kids, locals on work breaks, and tourists taking a rest. The piazza radiates a welcoming feeling with people from all walks of life conjoining for a break among the outdoor cafes and shops that surround it.
Piazza Santa Maria is a hub of activity, especially in the evenings when locals and visitors gather to enjoy the vibrant street life, live music, and the enchanting ambiance of this area.
Piazza Mattei
Piazza Mattei sits in the narrow streets of the Sant’Angelo district in the Jewish ghetto, sheltered from the crowds of the bustling streets of Rome.
The centerpiece of the square is the enchanting "Fontana delle Tartarughe", or Turtle Fountain. It is a perfect spot to savor a gelato, soak in the ambiance, and admire the artistic and architectural beauty of this lesser-known gem.
The Jewish ghetto has some incredible food, so if you are looking for a different kind of traditional Roman cuisine, consider having a leisurely lunch in the area and strolling through this piazza afterward.
Piazza of the Knights of Malta
This square on Aventine Hill became famous in the last decade or so and was a best-kept secret for those in the know. It can be tricky to get to, but look for a flight of stairs from the main road, Largo Carlo Azeglio Ciampi. There is also a road up you can take from Via del Circo Massimo.
At the top of the hill is a piazza covered in cypress trees and a boundary wall which is part of the home to the Grand Priory of the Order of the Knights of Malta. You might see a line of people waiting in front of the grand door to peek inside the keyhole. Look inside to admire an unprecedented view of the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica framed by the greenery of a beautiful garden.
Come early in the morning the avoid the line as tourists will be attempting to get the best photo they can through the keyhole and might not be courteous of the time of those waiting.
Piazza della Madonna dei Monti
The Monti area of Rome is one of the few neighborhoods left that is still old-school Roman with few tourists. Piazza della Madonna dei Monti has an infamous "Catecumeni Fountain" which is the perfect spot to indulge in a little dolce far niente (the sweetness of doing nothing).
As a reward for exploring all over Rome, take the opportunity to order a coffee or glass of wine at one of the nearby cafes. Then, sit on the fountain’s steps and do some people-watching in the beautiful heart of Monti. During the day, locals take breaks from work to eat lunch here. At night, the piazza turns up the energy as people gather to drink beer or wine and socialize.
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