Barberini Square
What to See If you want to visit this place, here is some useful information about it.
Piazza Barberini is one of the most emblematic squares in Rome. Its charm lies in its grandiose architecture, stunning fountains, and lively atmosphere. This picturesque square is a must-visit during your trip to the Eternal City.
At the heart of Piazza Barberini stands the Fountain of Triton, a magnificent sculpture created by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in the 17th century. The Triton, a mythological creature half-man and half-fish, is depicted blowing into a giant seashell, creating an enchanting water spectacle.
Close to the square, you will find the Barberini Palace, a splendid Baroque palace that now houses the National Gallery of Ancient Art. With its imposing façade and sumptuous interior, the palace is an architectural gem that is truly worth a visit. Inside, you can admire masterpieces by artists such as Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian.
As you stroll around the square, you will also discover numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops. It's the perfect place to take a break and enjoy the lively atmosphere of Roman life. You can sit at a terrace, savor an Italian coffee, or indulge in local specialties.
By visiting Piazza Barberini, you will dive into the history and architecture of Rome while experiencing its contemporary ambiance. It is a place not to be missed during your exploration of the Italian capital.
Tips I'm sharing all my tips here for visiting this place under the best conditions.
Choose the Right Time to Visit
Piazza Barberini can get quite crowded, so it is recommended to visit outside peak tourist hours to enjoy a calmer atmosphere. Weekday mornings are generally less crowded.
Admire the Triton Fountain
The Triton Fountain in the center of the square is a remarkable work of art. Take the time to admire it from different angles and appreciate the sculptural details created by Gian Lorenzo Bernini.
Explore the Artistic Treasures of Rome from Piazza Barberini
This magnificent square in the heart of Rome offers you an ideal starting point to discover two fascinating artistic treasures nearby:
- Palazzo Barberini (home to the National Gallery of Ancient Art) : Immerse yourself in the history of art by visiting Palazzo Barberini, with its rich collections of remarkable paintings and sculptures. Tickets available here.
- Capuchin Crypt : let yourself be captivated by the eerie beauty of the Capuchin Crypt, adorned with human bones arranged in an artistic manner. Book here now for an unforgettable cultural and artistic experience in Rome!
Indulge in Gelato or Coffee
Enjoy the nearby cafes and ice cream parlors around Piazza Barberini to savor delicious Italian gelato or have a refreshing coffee. It's a pleasant way to take a break and soak in the atmosphere of the square.
Nighttime Visit
Piazza Barberini is also stunning at night when the buildings and fountains are illuminated. Consider an evening visit to experience a different atmosphere and capture stunning nighttime photos.
Enjoy your visit to Piazza Barberini and immerse yourself in its unique charm in the heart of Rome!
Information Here are all the useful information about this place (address, opening hours, coordinates, etc.).
History Every place has its history. Discover all the events that have marked this place here.
A Name to be Remembered: Barberini Palace and the Triton Fountain
Piazza Barberini is an iconic square in Rome, perched on the Quirinal Hill between the Trevi and Colonna districts. The name Piazza Barberini derives from the Barberini Palace, erected in the early 17th century for Cardinal Francesco Barberini. At the heart of the square proudly stands the famous Triton Fountain, a remarkable sculpture by Bernini dating back to 1642-1643. This artwork was commissioned by Pope Urban VIII, a member of the Barberini family, and embodies the elegance and grandeur of the era.
A Tribute to the Barberini: The Fountain of Bees
At the corner of Via Vittorio Veneto, you will also discover the Fountain of Bees, another creation of Bernini's artistic genius. Bees, the emblem of the Barberini family, adorn this unique sculpture. It symbolizes the power and beauty associated with this illustrious family.
An Intriguing Past: The Obelisk and Funerary Rites
Between 1632 and 1822, a majestic obelisk also stood on the square but was later transferred to the Gardens of Villa Medici. An intriguing fact from the 18th century is that Piazza Barberini was used as a site for the exhibition of corpses to facilitate identification. This historical testimony recalls the practices of the time and evokes a surprising past.
A Cultural Crossroad: Via Veneto and its Cinematic Legends
Piazza Barberini is an ideal starting point to explore Rome. By walking along the famous Via Veneto, immortalized in Federico Fellini's film "La Dolce Vita," you will immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere. This square has also been the backdrop for memorable scenes, such as the wild ride of Bianchina from Ugo Fantozzi in the film "Fantozzi se Retire." It embodies the crossroad of cultures and cinematic legends.
Family If you're visiting this place with your family, I'm sharing some great tips that will delight both kids and adults.
Triton Fountain
Children will love the Triton Fountain located in the center of the square. Let them marvel at the sculpture of the Triton.
Horse Carriage Ride
Give your children a unique experience by taking a horse carriage ride around Piazza Barberini. They will feel like princes and princesses as they explore the square in a fun way.
Artistic Activities
Bring pencils, paper, and colors so that your children can express themselves artistically by drawing the buildings and fountains of Piazza Barberini. This will allow them to develop their creativity while appreciating the surroundings.
Statue Game
Play the statue game with your children around Piazza Barberini. Ask them to recreate the poses of the statues found in the square and take fun photos. It's a playful activity that will entertain them while getting them to engage with the surrounding art.