 Planned by Valadier at the beginning of the XIX
century, it is considered one of the best urban works in Rome. It
represents he point of confluence of three important streets: via del
Corso, via del Babuino and via di Ripetta. It is characterized by the
Porta del Popolo by Bernini, which was the most important entrance in
Rome for travellers coming from the north through the consular Flaminia
road. In the middle of the square you can see the second greatest
obelisk in Rome: the Egyptian Obelisk, realized in 1200 B.C. At the
slopes of Pincio's terrace, from where you can enjoy an exceptional view
of Rome, there is the "Chiesa di Santa Maria del Popolo", built in the
Middle Ages and rebuilt many times until its complete restoration
occurred during Renaissance. Inside, you can admire works by
Pinturicchio and Caravaggio. The second aisle, the one on left, is
overhung by "Cappella Chigi" designed by Raffaello during the
Renaissance. Two more similar churches face this square: "Santa Maria in
Montesanto" and "Santa Maria dei Miracoli", realized in the XVI century
by Bernini. |
