20 Famous Italian Piazzas That Will Leave You Breathless
Famous Italian piazzas, typically encircled by buildings, are vibrant public squares and the heart of Italian cities’ public life. Although ‘piazza‘ translates to ‘public square‘ in English, these spaces are unique and can vary in shape.
Let’s review 20 must-see piazzas in Italy one at a time, journeying from north to south.
1. Piazza Del Duomo, Milan
Your visit to Milan wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the grandeur of the Piazza del Duomo, positioned at the city’s heart. It’s not just a square but a culmination of history and architecture that has been a central gathering place for centuries.
- Beginnings: Established in 1489, the piazza has been where locals and visitors converge, embodying the city’s cultural and social vitality.
- Cathedral: The Milan Cathedral, or Duomo, dominates the space. A masterclass in Gothic architecture, its construction started in 1386 and spanned over five centuries until final details were added in 1965.
- Architecture: As you walk through, you’ll note the piazza’s blend of medieval and modern elements. The open vista lets you view the cathedral’s spires and sculptures in detail.
Adjacent to the square is the entrance to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, renowned as the world’s oldest continuously operating shopping mall. At the square’s other end sits an equestrian statue of King Victor Emmanuel II, the inaugural monarch of a unified Italy.
On your visit:
- Climb up to the Duomo’s roof to enjoy a magnificent city perspective.
- Take a moment to appreciate the grandeur of the surrounding architecture, with many buildings echoing the cathedral’s intricate design.
- Walk through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II to enjoy its majestic architecture and explore its luxury stores.
While exploring the piazza, the bustling atmosphere, with its mix of locals and tourists, offers an authentic taste of Milanese life.
Suggested Read: Discover the 10 Most Fun Things to Do in Milan
You are experiencing a site where Napoleon once had ambitions for city planning, which included the construction of an elegant boulevard named the Foro Buonaparte.
Take time to absorb the living history around you in this iconic Milanese piazza. It is a true emblem of the city’s heritage and an unmissable experience during your stay in Milan.
2. Piazza San Marco, Venice
In the heart of Venice, you’ll find Piazza San Marco, the largest square in the city, often known as the Drawing Room of Europe.
When you step into this beautiful piazza, you’re greeted by the intricate facades and historical grandeur that influenced Napoleon to give it such a high accolade. This open space holds a treasure of architectural wonders and centuries of history.
At the eastern end of the square, the imposing San Marco Basilica stands as a testament to Venice’s opulence. Its Byzantine mosaics and Venetian Gothic architecture present a dazzling visual story of the city’s past.
The basilica, significant for its religious and historical essence, wasn’t the cathedral church of Venice until 1807, yet it has always been one of the city’s most famous landmarks.
Architectural Elements:
- Five arched portals of the basilica.
- Campanile (bell tower), offering panoramic views.
Surrounding the basilica, the three Procuratie buildings frame the square with their arcades, housing chic shops and cafés where you can savor a cup of coffee while absorbing the scene.
Imagine the harmonies of live orchestras enhancing the ambiance as you dine. The northern and southern wings, once offices of the Procurators, now echo with the sounds of modern-day Venice.
3. Piazza Degli Scacchi, Marostica
In the heart of Marostica, Italy, you will discover the renowned Piazza Degli Scacchi. This square is unique for its life-sized chess game, which stems from a local legend involving a chess match played in 1454 to resolve a duel for the hand of a noblewoman.
Location and Significance
- Northern Italy: Nestled in the Veneto region.
- Partita a Scacchi di Marostica: The game honors the peace-keeping chess match.
The square boasts exquisite architecture reminiscent of the medieval era, blending seamlessly into the town’s enchanting atmosphere. The surrounding buildings are a testament to Marostica’s rich history, adding depth to your visit.
Chess Event Highlights
- Interactive Chessboard: The entire piazza becomes a chessboard.
- Costumes: Participants wear medieval costumes, enhancing the historical immersion.
- Pageantry: Accompanied by parades and period-specific entertainment.
Your experience in Piazza Degli Scacchi Marostica will be heightened during the chess festival. Take in the intricate details of each costume and the strategic moves played out on the grand chessboard.
This is not just a reenactment; it’s a gateway to the past, enveloping you in the traditions and culture of Marostica.
4. Piazza Delle Erbe, Verona
Piazza delle Erbe is your key to experiencing Verona’s historical charm. Once the site of the Roman Forum, the piazza holds centuries of history in its cobblestones. You’re standing in the very heart of the city, where the Roman grid plan still lingers in the streets branching from the square.
- Market Days: Monday-Saturday
- Hours: 7:30 am – 8:30 pm
Imagine yourself amidst vibrant stalls at the open-air produce and flower market, the commerce punctuating daily life just as it did in ancient times. The palazzi-flanked square is not just a place to shop; it’s a live gallery showcasing Veronese architecture through the ages.
Here’s what you should look out for:
- Fountain of Madonna Verona: Admire the Roman statue crowning this fountain from the 14th century.
- Torre dei Lamberti: Elevate your perspective by visiting this towering example of medieval architecture.
Remember to savor a coffee at one of the charming cafes fringing the square. As you sip, let your gaze wander over the murals and frescoes adorn the Mazzanti Houses. Every nook and corner here is steeped in history,
By evening, the Piazza delle Erbe transforms. The market stalls recede, and the square’s restaurants and bars come to life, offering you a taste of Verona’s rich gastronomy and vibrant nightlife.
This transition from day to night adds to the dynamic experience of the Piazza, making it a must-visit on your journey through Verona.
5. Piazza Corpus Domini, Turin
The Piazza Corpus Domini is a testament to Turin’s historical wealth. It’s named after the Corpus Domini basilica, its centerpiece. When you visit, you’ll find the piazza’s atmosphere is steeped in history.
Located near the heart of the city, it is easily accessible and offers a glimpse into the baroque architectural style characteristic of Turin.
Noteworthy Aspects:
- Architecture: You’ll observe a harmonious blend of buildings dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. The piazza’s layout is typically Italian, showcasing the importance of open spaces in urban settings.
- Cultural Significance: This piazza is uniquely positioned in Turin’s tapestry, offering insights into the region’s former ducal glory.
Events:
- Various events and markets enliven the piazza throughout the year, translating into lively gatherings celebrating Turin’s local culture and community.
Suggested Read: Is Turin Worth Visiting? A Complete Traveler’s Guide
6. Piazza Carignano, Turin
In the heart of Turin, you’ll find Piazza Carignano, a square that exemplifies Italy’s rich architectural and historical tapestry. It’s encircled by grand edifices that tell a narrative spanning centuries.
One of the most significant buildings here is Palazzo Carignano. It is originally designed by Guarino Guarini in the 17th century and showcases an impressive Baroque style.
Although initially conceived as a four-winged structure, it was completed with three wings forming an open composition. Your eyes will be drawn to the striking façade, a distinctive feature separating it from the common austere architecture of the period. The rear façade facing Piazza Carlo Alberto is from the 19th century and offers a contrasting architectural style.
The significance of Palazzo Carignano goes beyond just architecture. It holds a vital place in Italian history as it was the birthplace of King Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of a united Italy. Moreover, the palace served as a historic political hub, as the first Italian parliament.
Today, it houses the National Museum of the Italian Risorgimento, where you can delve into Italy’s unification history.
7. Piazza Maggiore, Bologna
Piazza Maggiore, the principal square in Bologna, Italy, established in the 15th century, is a grandiose medieval square that should be a highlight of your visit to Bologna.
Standing in the piazza, you are surrounded by some of Bologna’s most important buildings.
- Palazzo d’Accursio: This palace serves as the city’s town hall and houses a collection of art and municipal offices.
- Palazzo del Podestà: Recognizable for its large clock and the whispering corners at its base.
- Basilica di San Petronio: One of the largest churches in the world, named after Bologna’s patron saint.
- Palazzo dei Notai: Once the headquarters for the notaries’ guild.
During your visit, take a moment to observe the Fountain of Neptune (Fontana del Nettuno), a monumental 16th-century fountain that symbolizes the city’s power and culture. Tommaso Laureti designed it with a statue of Neptune that Giambologna chiseled.
The sheltered walkways with arches, known as porticoes, leading to Piazza Maggiore stand out for their architectural grandeur.
Significant to Bologna’s history and architecture, these porticoes span a considerable distance throughout the city and have earned recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Suggested Read: Wine Tours from Bologna: Elevate Your Tasting Experience
Not far from Bologna, the Piazza Grande in Modena is another UNESCO site worth visiting for its historical and architectural significance.
8. Piazza Della Signoria, Florence
Piazza della Signoria is your window to the soul of Florence. As you step into this L-shaped square, you’re greeted by Palazzo Vecchio, Florence’s town hall with its iconic crenelated tower.
You’re standing in one of the most famous piazzas in the world, a social and political focal point that has been central to the city’s history since the 14th century.
Beside Palazzo Vecchio lies the Loggia dei Lanzi, an open-air sculpture gallery that showcases Renaissance masterpieces, including the powerful Perseus with the head of Medusa by Cellini.
| Notable Sculptures at Loggia dei Lanzi |
|---|
| Benvenuto Cellini’s Perseus with the Head of Medusa |
| Giambologna’s Rape of the Sabine Women |
| Giambologna’s Hercules and Nessus |
Suggested Read: 20 Famous Italian Statues: Must-See Sculptures in Italy
Just a short walk will bring you to the Uffizi Gallery, another testament to the city’s rich art legacy, bordered by the square.
In the center of Piazza della Signoria, you’re also confronted with a replica of Michelangelo’s David, symbolizing the strength and beauty of the human form and reminding Florence of its defiance during turbulent times.
The square’s atmosphere is amplified by the nearby presence of the Fountain of Neptune, where the statue of Neptune stands as a guardian over his aquatic domain. This masterpiece by Bartolomeo Ammannati celebrates Tuscan maritime ventures and adds to the piazza’s historic ambiance.
For a moment of quiet reflection, explore the adjacent churches: Santa Croce, where legendary figures are entombed, and the lesser-known but equally awe-inspiring Santa Maria Novella.
9. Piazza Dei Miracoli, Pisa
When you visit Piazza dei Miracoli in Pisa, you’re entering a place of profound architectural beauty and historic significance. Known as the Square of Miracles, this walled area is one of the most beautiful in the world.
You’ll find yourself surrounded by four masterpieces of medieval architecture that have left an indelible mark on Italian cultural heritage.
- Cathedral: At the heart of the square, the Pisa Cathedral is a testament to Pisan Romanesque architecture. Originally built in the 11th century, its bronze doors and ornate facade captivate onlookers.
- Baptistry: Adjacent to the cathedral is the Baptistery of St. John, known for its perfect acoustics and the transition in architectural styles from Romanesque at the bottom to Gothic at the top.
- Campanile: Popularly known as the Leaning Tower of Pisa, this freestanding bell tower is famous worldwide for its unintended tilt. Efforts to correct the lean have stabilized the structure, much to the benefit of future generations.
- Cemetery: The Campo Santo, or monumental cemetery, is said to be built around a shipload of sacred soil from Golgotha, making it an exceedingly revered site.
This UNESCO World Heritage site encapsulates the wealth and power of the Republic of Pisa during the Middle Ages. It remains an essential pilgrimage for those who appreciate the grandeur of historic Italy.
10. Piazza del Campo, Siena
When you visit Siena, one of the must-see destinations is the Piazza del Campo. As the principal public space of the historic center, it is renowned as one of the most famous medieval squares in Europe.
Twice a year, this shell-shaped piazza hosts the famous Palio di Siena, a horse race steeped in medieval traditions.
The Design:
- Shape: The piazza boasts a unique concave shell shape that gathers rainwater and is a natural amphitheater for events.
- Sectors: Divided into nine segments, symbolizing the rule of the Council of Nine who governed Siena in its medieval golden age.
Surrounding Structures:
- Palazzo Pubblico: This Gothic town hall, built between 1297 and 1310, houses stunning frescoes and artworks.
- Torre del Mangia: A slender tower offering panoramic views but requires climbing 400 steps to reach the top.
- Fonte Gaia: This decorative monument features the work of Jacopo della Quercia, although replicas have replaced the originals.
While you explore the piazza, your experience is enriched by the Gothic architecture that frames the square. The surrounding palazzos and the campo’s paving pattern, with its distinctive fishbone brickwork, testify to Siena’s architectural heritage.
Take a moment to appreciate the details – the alignment with the city’s topography, the piazza’s communal spirit, and the panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside that begin beyond its borders.
11. Piazza del Popolo, Ascoli Piceno
The Piazza del Popolo in Ascoli Piceno is a prime example of medieval town squares in Italy, encapsulating the charm of the Marche region. Enclosed by historic buildings, you are transported to an era marked by communal gatherings and architectural prowess.
- Notable Buildings: Surrounded by remarkable structures, the square boasts the 13th-century Palazzo del Popolo. This edifice, which has transformed into a civic museum, commands your attention with its classical facade.
- Architectural Harmony: You will note the impressive unity of the travertine constructions, lending the space a distinct luminosity and visual synchronicity.
- Social Hub: Historically, the space served as a vital communal hub, a tradition that persists today, with cafes and shops fostering a lively ambiance.
When visiting, take your time to appreciate the intricate details of the colonnades and arches that illustrate the square’s past. Walking through the square, you are treading on the same stones that generations before you have, adding a layer of historical depth to your experience.
12. Piazza IV Novembre, Perugia
In the heart of Perugia, Piazza IV Novembre stands as an iconic square, serving as the city’s social and cultural hub and a must-see during your visit to Perugia.
This historic piazza is renowned for its architectural beauty and its role in Perugians’ daily lives.
Central Features:
- Fontana Maggiore: A striking medieval fountain constructed between 1275 and 1278.
- Cathedral of San Lorenzo: Facing the fountain, this cathedral is a significant religious structure in Perugia.
Historical Significance:
- Named in honor of the Italian victory in World War I.
- The piazza has been a gathering place for centuries, hosting public events and marketplaces.
Enjoy a leisurely walk around the square and appreciate the seamless blend of medieval and Renaissance structures. You can admire various intricate details, from the sculptures on the fountain to the detailed façade of the cathedral.
Cultural Experience:
- Frequented by locals and tourists alike.
- Offers a lively atmosphere with many cafes and restaurants.
When you visit Piazza IV Novembre, you are standing in a place of layered history, where each stone has been a silent witness to events unfolding through the ages. Take your time to explore, for here, history is not just learned; it is experienced.
13. Piazza San Pietro, Rome
When you step into Piazza San Pietro (St. Peter’s Square), you’re not just entering any public space; it’s the grand ceremonial plaza at the heart of Vatican City, welcoming you with its open arms.
Designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini from 1656 to 1667, the piazza serves as a forecourt to St. Peter’s Basilica. Bernini created an elliptical shape, defined by two colonnades, to convey the embrace of the “maternal arms of Mother Church.”
It is hard not to be moved by the sheer scale and artistic mastery on display.
| Notable Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Colonnades | Two rows made up of 284 Doric columns and 88 pilasters |
| Central Obelisk | An Egyptian obelisk placed by Caligula in 37 A.D. |
| Fountains | Two located symmetrically on each side of the obelisk |
| Capacity | Space for over 300,000 people during ceremonies |
During your visit, you’ll notice the expansive cobblestone area leading to the basilica, marked by a central obelisk flanked by twin fountains.
If you stand on the foci of the elliptical square, you’ll witness an optical illusion where the rows of columns align perfectly, appearing as a single column. As you approach St. Peter’s Basilica, pause to admire the statues of saints that crown the balustrade atop the colonnades.
Your visit to Rome transitions from the terrestrial to the spiritual here in Piazza San Pietro, as you’re at the threshold of one of the holiest sites in Christendom.
14. Piazza Di Spagna, Rome
When you visit Rome, the iconic Piazza di Spagna is a must-visit. It is known for its vibrant atmosphere and historical significance.
At the base, you’ll see the Fontana della Barcaccia. This Baroque-style fountain dates back to the early 1600s and was designed by Pietro Bernini and his son, the renowned Gian Lorenzo Bernini.
Ascending from the piazza, you encounter the famous Spanish Steps. This 135-step monumental stairway was constructed between 1723 and 1725, leading to the Trinità dei Monti church perched above.
This architectural gem has historical resonance and offers a splendid cityscape view.
Surrounding the piazza, you will appreciate the elegant buildings once home to illustrious artists and poets. The Keats-Shelley House is one such example, a museum dedicated to the English Romantic poets right at the foot of the Spanish Steps.
This location has been a hub for artists and a hotspot for tourists who flock to experience its unique blend of culture, fashion, and history.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Fontana della Barcaccia | Baroque fountain at the piazza’s base |
| Spanish Steps | 135-step stairway leading to a church |
| Keats-Shelley House | A museum dedicated to English Romantic poets |
| Panoramic View | Offers a view of Rome from Trinità dei Monti |
Remember to take a moment to enjoy the bustling ambiance and imagine the countless feet that have traversed these steps over centuries.
15. Piazza Navona, Rome
As you stroll through the streets of Rome, Piazza Navona stands out as a showpiece of Baroque Roman architecture and art. Built on the Stadium of Domitian site, where ancient Romans came to watch games, Piazza Navona follows the shape of the original track.
At the center of the piazza is the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi (Fountain of the Four Rivers), designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in the 17th century. This masterpiece is crowned by the Obelisk of Domitian, providing a fascinating historical layering.
Each statue within the fountain symbolizes a river from different continents known to the world at the time – the Nile, Ganges, Danube, and Río de la Plata.
| Key Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Centre Attraction: | Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi by Bernini |
| Historical Basis: | Follows the contour of the Stadium of Domitian |
| Architecture Style: | Baroque |
The facades of baroque structures surround the piazza, holding centuries of history. Sant’Agnese in Agone, a 17th-century church by Francesco Borromini and others, faces the fountain.
16. Piazza del Campidoglio, Rome
Piazza del Campidoglio is a monumental piazza in Rome you cannot miss. It’s a masterpiece of Renaissance design orchestrated by the visionary Michelangelo at Pope Paul III’s request.
The piazza’s development started in the mid-16th century, aiming to revamp the Capitoline Hill into a grand civic space. The area comprises three main buildings: the Palazzo Senatorio, the central building flanked by the Palazzo dei Conservatori, and the Palazzo Nuovo.
- Palazzo Senatorio, which overlooks the Roman Forum, is known for its beautiful façade and staircase.
- Palazzo dei Conservatori and Palazzo Nuovo: Hosts the Capitoline Museums, a classical and Renaissance art treasure trove.
Statues and facades with symbolic motifs ring the piazza. At the center of the oval is the famous equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius, a replica of the original preserved in the Capitoline Museums.
If you are interested in Michelangelo’s architectural endeavor, the Piazza del Campidoglio is a testament to his ability to fuse functionality with supreme aesthetic values. As you stand on this famous square, you’re standing on history—where leaders, artists, and the public have gathered for centuries.
17. Piazza Barberini, Rome
When you visit Rome, spend some time at Piazza Barberini, a bustling square at the junction where three distinct Roman roads converge.
Named after the Barberini family, the square is a hub for transportation and rich in artistic and architectural heritage. One of Piazza Barberini’s dominant features is the Palazzo Barberini, an impressive palace dating back to the 17th century.
The palace showcases the grandeur of Baroque architecture. It is now home to a part of the Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Antica, where you can admire a vast collection of Renaissance and Baroque paintings.
In the heart of Piazza Barberini stands the magnificent Fontana del Tritone, a monument sculpted by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in 1642-43. This artwork depicts Triton, a Greek god of the sea, sitting atop a shell-shaped chariot, masterfully blowing water through a conch.
| Key Attractions | Description |
|---|---|
| Palazzo Barberini | A historic palace housing artistic treasures. |
| Fontana del Tritone | Bernini’s Baroque masterpiece is in the center of the square. |
18. Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples
Piazza del Plebiscito is a stop you won’t want to miss if you visit Naples. Embracing Naples’ rich artistic and cultural heritage, this is one of the city’s largest and most majestic squares in southern Italy.
Historical Significance
Originally named Largo di Palazzo, Piazza del Plebiscito was conceived during the French occupation of Naples. It wasn’t until after Napoleon’s downfall that it gained its current moniker, reflecting the plebiscite that brought Naples into the unified Kingdom of Italy in 1860.
Architectural Elements
- San Francesco di Paola: This prominent church anchors the piazza’s semicircular colonnade, featuring a portico supported by six columns and two equestrian statues.
- The Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale): Located at one end of the piazza, this palace served as the former residence of the Bourbon Kings. Its neoclassical façade adds a royal charm to the square.
Suggested Read: 30 Fun Facts About Naples, Italy
19. Piazza Duomo, Amalfi
Nestled in the heart of the Italian maritime town of Amalfi is the stunning Piazza Duomo. This vibrant square embodies Italian culture and artistry and is dominated by the impressive Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Amalfi).
With its striped Byzantine facade, the cathedral is a religious site and a historical treasure that beckons tourists and locals alike. When you enter the Piazza Duomo, the grand staircase leading up to the cathedral’s entrance will capture your attention.
It’s a popular spot for photographs, so don’t hesitate to take a moment to capture your memories here. The stairs are a social hub, often dotted with people soaking in the square’s ambiance.
Architecture:
- Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Amalfi): Combining Arab-Norman Romanesque architecture with baroque and Gothic elements.
- Bell tower: Adorned with majolica tiles, offering a picturesque contrast against the Mediterranean sky.
What to Expect:
- Local culture: An array of cafes and souvenir shops around the square contribute to a bustling atmosphere.
- Events: The Piazza Duomo hosts various events, particularly during summer evenings.
20. Piazza del Duomo, Syracuse
When you visit Syracuse on the east coast of Sicily, delight in the splendor of the Piazza del Duomo. Its limestone buildings, reflecting sunlight, create a luminous backdrop to a historic site.
At the center of the piazza is the Syracuse Duomo (Cathedral), which dates back to the 5th century BCE. Originally a Greek temple dedicated to Athena, the cathedral’s walls still include ancient columns.
Through intricate blending, the structure embodies layers of history, transitioning from Greek to Byzantine, then Norman, and finally into baroque glory after the 1693 earthquake.
Surrounding the Piazza del Duomo, a collection of majestic buildings encapsulates Sicilian Baroque architecture. The Archbishop’s Palace and the Palazzo Beneventano del Bosco are architectural treasures contributing to the overarching historical narrative from ancient Greece to the present day.
Suggested Read: 7 UNESCO Sites in Sicily: Must-See World Heritage Gems
Famous Italian Piazzas FAQ
Can you explain the architectural characteristics of Italian piazza design?
Italian piazzas are open public squares surrounded by significant buildings. They often have a symmetrical layout that emphasizes communal space and accessibility.
Architectural features typically include cobblestone streets, Renaissance architecture, and sometimes monumental fountains or obelisks that serve as focal points.
What activities are commonly enjoyed in Italian piazzas?
In Italian piazzas, you can partake in various activities such as enjoying outdoor cafés, watching street performers, socializing with locals, and attending public events and markets. These famous Italian piazzas serve as central meeting points and are integral to daily life in Italy.
How does Piazza San Marco distinguish itself from other Italian squares?
Piazza San Marco in Venice stands out with its grand scale and the opulence of its architecture, including St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. It is also notable for being one of the few sizable open spaces in the canal-laced city.
What historical events are associated with Piazza del Campo?
Piazza del Campo in Siena is famous for hosting the Palio di Siena, a medieval horse race. The piazza’s shell shape and the surrounding Palazzo Pubblico and Torre del Mangia symbolize Siena’s rich historical heritage.
Which piazzas are considered must-visit in Rome?
When in Rome, visit Piazza del Popolo for its grandiose layout. The Piazza di Spagna is also a must-see for viewing the Spanish Steps and the Barcaccia fountain. These piazzas are not only stunning but also steeped in history.
And of course, while not technically located in Rome, don’t miss St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City, another monumental site nearby.
