“Donna Olimpia used to live here she might be unknown to you, but she was arguably the most powerful woman in 17th-century Rome. Olimpia Maidalchini from Viterbo, mostly known as Donna Olimpia or with the derogatory moniker of “La Pimpaccia”, lived right here. Married to Pamphilio Pamphilj from the famous Roman noble family, she lived in the Pamphilj Palace that today is the seat of the Brazilian Embassy.”
Piazza Navona is the most spectacular and characteristic squares of Baroque style in Rome. It lies were once was the stadium of Domitian, in fact the shape of the current square reproduces precisely the perimeter of the ancient stadium with now the building surrounding all its sides. The square is dominated by the Church of Sant' Agnese in Agone, by Carlo and Rainaldi and Borromini, making it one of the most magnificent Baroque architecture in Rome. The square is one of the landmark of the city, together with its magnificent fountains, the Fontana del Moro, the Fontana di Nettuno and the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi "four rivers fountain" by Bernini.
From the Pantheon, continue to walk westbound along the narrow street via Giustiniani, continue straight along via del Salvatore and then take the street almost in front of you, called corsia Agonale. You will then arrive in the beautiful Piazza Navona
🗒️ Note* Once you arrive in Piazza Navona, you might be tempted to sit down in one of the dozens cafes and restaurant around the area, and despite their location very suggestive, I do not recommend to stop here to eat. These restaurants and cafés are always very touristy, overpriced and the food is far away from what you will find in a local restaurant. Usually they will also try to scam with the final price if you do not pay extra attention to the check.
The elongated Piazza Navona with its three impressive fountains, including the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi with the Egyptian obelisk at its centre, is Rome's most famous and vibrant square. Built in the 1st century AD, the square used to be a stadium for athletic competitions and could accommodate over 20,000 spectators. The backdrop of Baroque architecture, tourists, street artists, restaurants, and bars make it the perfect setting to cherish the moment.
💎 Hidden gem: A must see from Piazza Navona, walk west along via di Tor Millina, then take the right along the via della Pace and you will reach the Church Complex. The Cloister is located in the center of the building complex.
Details: Just located beside the Navona Square, you can find the Chiostro del Bramante, a very hidden gem in the heart of the city. The Cloister is dated back to the Renaissance architecture designed by Donato Bramante. The Cloister was the main element of the monastery complex which include the near church.