The Piazza di Spagna is one of the most prominent squares in Rome. Set at the base of the Pincio Hill, it is home to one of the city’s best-loved attractions – the Spanish Steps. But the Piazza is more than just an elaborate show of stairs; it also boasts a rich history filled with notable artists, scholars, and creatives.
If you’re ready to enjoy everything it has to offer, here’s what to do.
1. The Fontana Della Barcaccia
Directly translated as “fountain of the ugly boat”, this statue sits right in the middle of the square and is considered one of Rome’s most beautiful fountains. It boasts a classic Baroque style that dates back to 1627, when Pope Urban VIII commissioned Pietro and Gian Lorenzo Bernini to create it.
2. The Spanish Steps
You can’t miss the Spanish Steps in the Piazza. These monumental stairs are iconic of Rome and were the brainchild of Pope Benedict XIII between 1723 and 1725.
They consist of 12 flights of stairs made up of 135 steps, with a number of terraces to stop and catch the view on.
3. Trinita Dei Monti
Once you’ve climbed to the top of the Spanish Steps, you’ll find yourself on the Pincio terrace which offers great views across the surrounding scenery. From there, you can head to the Church of Trinita dei Monti, an impressive edifice that has two twin bell towers. Built back in 1495, the church has evolved a lot over the years, but you can still witness remnants of the Baroque style it was originally built in.
4. The Keats-Shelley House
Right next to the steps you’ll find the Keats-Shelley House, which was the last home of John Keats, the prominent English poet. He actually died in the house at just 25 years of age, and the building today acts an homage to his work, complete with paintings, sculptures, objects, manuscripts, and first edition books of his, Shelley, and Lord Byron. There is also a special library inside that stocks more than 8,000 books.
5. Babington’s Tea Rooms
If you’re in need of a break and light refreshment, head to Babington’s Tea Room, an establishment that is dressed up in true English style. The rooms were established in 1893 as a tea and reading room for many of the Anglo-Saxon residents of the city.
6. House Museum of Giorgio De Chirico
For more creative endeavours, visit the House Museum of Giorgio De Chirico which is set inside a 17th century building in the Piazza di Spagna. The artist resided here for his final thirty years, and visitors can now wander around the open house that is home to heritage and works of the artist
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