When it comes to historic public squares, the piazzas in Italy are impossible to beat. For years, you’ve seen them in the movies, on TV and in travel guides. Perhaps you’ve even dreamed of taking your own selfie there. Oval or rectangular, shell-shaped or terraced, each square is the heart and soul of a local area. Join us as we explore remarkable squares in Italy, where you’ll discover countless exciting things to see and do that you’ll remember forever. Whether you’re a culture lover or a sightseer, there’s truly something for everyone.
Piazzas in Italy aren’t just the focal point of villages and cities – they’re also bustling social hubs adorned with cathedrals, important political buildings, and sometimes monuments and fountains.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through some of Italy’s most captivating piazzas. From the iconic squares of Venice to the hidden gems of Lucca, each of these open spaces has its own unique charm and beauty. So sit back, relax, and let us guide you through a curated list of the most beautiful squares Italy has to offer.
The most beautiful piazzas in Italy you need to see
Naturally, we couldn’t fit all the beautiful open spaces into one list. We have cherry-picked 15 gorgeous squares in Italy that you should visit at least once.
1. Piazza San Marco in Venice
Nobody can deny that Piazza San Marco in Venice is one of the most famous piazzas in Italy. This gorgeous open space has witnessed political events and lively Carnivals, with ornate masks and costumes.
Let’s hop into our time-travelling machine and zoom back to the 9th century. That’s when the construction of this square began, but it wasn’t until 1177 that it got its current size and shape. About a hundred years later, it received its finishing touch with an impressive pavement, taking its charm to new heights.
Why is Piazza San Marco one of the most unique piazzas in Italy?
Did you know Venice is built on soft marshland? With no hard natural bedrock, Venetian buildings stand on thousands of wooden piles hammered into the mud. Imagine 100,000 wooden piles forming the foundation of the breathtaking Piazza San Marco. Talk about being unique.
Now, let’s talk about its size. St Mark’s Square isn’t just big, it’s colossal! Piazza San Marco is 180 m (590 ft) long and 70 m (230 ft) wide – that’s bigger than a football field. But size isn’t everything, right? This large monumental square is the only one of its kind in Venice – the others go by ‘‘Piazzetta’’ or ‘‘campos’’. But, wait, there is more!
A French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte described Piazza San Marco as the ‘‘most elegant drawing room in Europe’’. Fancy, huh? And why wouldn’t he? St Mark’s Square is truly special because the facades that line the square share the same height and proportions. Despite being constructed independently, these structures blend seamlessly together due to their consistent appearance.
And get this, thanks to Renaissance magic and its Byzantine-style basilica, this square is the talk of the town in Italy. The Doge’s Palace, the St Mark’s Campanile and San Mark’s Basilica, with ornate domes and over 8,000 square meters (86,000 square feet) of mosaics, stand here as a testament to Venice’s opulence. And did we mention St Mark’s Basilica houses the remains of St. Mark the Evangelist? Also, let’s not forget Caffè Florian – it’s one of the oldest Italian cafes.
FUN FACT:
But wait, there’s more! Piazza San Marco isn’t just about architectural marvels; it’s also famous for its unique quirks. Did you know St Mark’s Square is the lowest place in Venice? That’s why this square is often the first to experience acqua alta – Venice’s famous high water. This usually happens for a few days between October and January, turning the square into a surreal water world. If this happens, the locals and tourists navigate the temporary waterways with the help of wooden footbridges, turning the flood season into a unique Venetian experience.
2. Piazza del Campo in Siena
Let us sprinkle some wisdom on why the Piazza del Campo is one of the most fabulous piazzas in Italy. Locals lovingly call it “il Campo” (field in Italian) because it stands at the crossroads of main roads leading to the town. And guess what? Its iconic shell-shaped design helped Siena earn a spot on the UNESCO map. Pretty cool, right?
Now, here’s a juicy bit: Underneath all the hustle and bustle lies the ghost of an old Roman Forum. Yep, back in the day, this spot used to be the place to shop. Fast forward to the 13th century, and the Council of Nine (Siena’s ruling body at that time) said, “Let’s make a square!” And just like that, they created this large square and added its famous red brick paving in the 14th century.
Unusual shape
But what makes it truly unique, you may ask? Well, for starters, the Piazza del Campo used to host everything from executions to bullfights and the legendary Palio festivals. And here’s a little secret: take a closer look, and you’ll see that the layout of the square has nine sections. Why nine? They reflect the authority of the old government of the Nine who ran the show back then. Plus, the square points directly to the fancy Palazzo Pubblico – the city’s swanky headquarters.
According to Wikipedia, the wide-open sloping Piazza del Campo isn’t just pretty face – it’s one of the best medieval squares in Europe. It’s due to its architecture – the curved lines of the buildings provide an enclosed feeling. With its gorgeous Palazzo Pubblico, elegant palaces and the towering Torre del Mangia – it’s like stepping into a medieval fairy tale.
And here’s the cherry on top: twice a year, a heart-pounding horse race takes over the edges of the square. So there you have it, the Piazza del Campo is the ultimate hangout spot where history, culture and excitement collide in the most epic way possible.
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3. Piazza dei Miracoli in Pisa
Curious about what makes the Piazza dei Miracoli in Pisa so special? It’s not just because of the Leaning Tower; there’s a whole lot more to discover. This epicentre of awesomeness in Tuscany is one of the finest architectural complexes in the world. The 8.87-hectare (21.9-acre) Square of Miracles is home to not one, not two, but four gorgeous religious wonders. What’s inside? Brace yourself what lies within: the Pisa Cathedral, the Pisa Baptistery, the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Monumental Cemetery.
Here’s the fun part – the name game. One Italian writer described this square as the “meadow of miracles” in his book. Others lovingly refer to it as the “field of miracles”, and trust us, it truly lives up to its name!
Piazzas in Italy: The Square of Miracles in Pisa is like stepping into a medieval art gallery but in real life. No wonder UNESCO added it to its precious list in 1987.
The Highlights
Alright, let’s talk about its architecture. The Piazza del Duomo is home to the Pisa Cathedral dedicated to Saint Mary of the Assumption. This gorgeous cathedral dates back to 1064 and is a perfect example of the Pisan Romanesque style of architecture. And get this – Galileo, the famous scientist, got his inspiration for pendulum motion right while looking at a lamp swing there.
Then there’s a round Baptistery dedicated to Saint John the Baptist. It’s not just big, it’s massive – it’s the largest baptistery in Italy. And guess what? It’s even taller than the Leaning Tower of Pisa when you count the statue on top. There’s also the walled Monumental Cemetery at the square’s northern edge. Legend has it that its soil comes from the Holy Land, brought back by the archbishop of Pisa in the 12th century.
And there’s the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the quirky neighbour, which steals the show. It took 177 years to build it – and, boy, it does have a lean. So, there you have it – the Piazza dei Miracoli and its stunning buildings.
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4. St Peter’s Square in the Vatican
Wonder why St Peter’s Square in the Vatican is one of the most famous piazzas in Italy? This elliptical open space in front of St. Peter’s Basilica is not just any square – it’s the heartbeat of Catholicism and a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. St Peter’s Square and its basilica got their names after Saint Peter, who was Jesus’s apostle and the first pope. And get this: the original plan for St Peter’s Square and its basilica lies on the site of an old Roman racetrack – how cool is that?
St. Peter’s Square isn’t just your average gathering spot – it is colossal. We’re talking 320 meters (1050 ft) long and 240 meters (787 ft) wide. When it’s time for religious events, the pope can bless over 300,000 faithful gathered in the plaza from the window.
ARCHITECTURE:
Now, let’s say something about its architecture. Back in the 1660s, Pope Alexander VII decided he needed a new hangout spot – a super cool square. Its construction started with a snap of his fingers, (or maybe a papal decree). Gian Lorenzo Bernini was the mastermind behind this square’s design, and, just like that, between 1656 and 1667, St. Peter’s Square was born.
Imagine rows and rows of columns and pilasters, giving you serious ancient Roman vibes. 284 columns and 88 pilasters of four rows make this place feel like you’ve stepped into a giant marble hug. Up top, 140 statues of saints watch from above, and add a touch of divine elegance. And let’s not forget about the twin fountains – one designed by Bernini, the other by Maderno. And did we mention the massive Egyptian obelisk? Roman emperor Caligula brought it to Rome’s Circus of Nero in 40 AD. It’s been towering over the square since the 16th century, marking the exact centre of the square.
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If you want to make a grand entrance, stroll down Via della Conciliazione, which begins in the Castel Sant’ Angelo. This majestic street is like the red carpet of Vatican City, leading straight to one of the most famous squares in Italy.
5. Piazza della Signoria in Florence
Piazza della Signoria is like stepping into real-life Renaissance painting.
Planning a trip to Florence? Let us tell you why Piazza della Signoria should be at the top of your bucket list. Picture this: it’s like stepping into a time machine and landing back in the days of the Renaissance when artists and architects ruled in Italy rather than politicians. And if that’s not enough to lure you in, how about this? This stunning L-shaped open space isn’t just one of the most famous piazzas in the world. It’s a big open-air art gallery with the famous sculptures by the legendary Michelangelo and Donatello showing their masterpieces right there.
A tapestry of History.
Piazza della Signoria, as we see it today, has retained its form since the 13th century. But don’t let its age fool you – this square has seen some real drama in its time. There were rebellions, riots, and even the occasional public executions right in the square. It became the centre of political life in the 14th century.
The Medici family, the famous banking dynasty, and the patrons of the Renaissance finest minds like Michelangelo, Vasari, and Brunelleschi ran the show in Florence. They even had their own palace – the Palazzo Vecchio – towering over the square. Once the seat of the rulers of Florence is now one of the most impressive Italian town halls and the city’s must-see attraction.
Buy your ticket to the palace and see the private apartments of the Medici, Dante’s death mask and the Hall of the Five Hundred.
Then, there we have the Loggia dei Lanzi sculpture gallery, filled with ancient statues that whisper tales of centuries past. And did we mention Michelangelo’s David (well, a replica, but still impressive) in the middle? And peeking out from behind the Loggia? None other than the Uffizi Gallery, home to some of the world’s most celebrated artworks. Spend your morning soaking in the history and drama of Piazza della Signoria before hopping over to see some of the greatest artworks ever created in the Uffizi Gallery.
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6. Piazza dell‘Anfiteatro in Lucca
A square that’s not so square.
Let us tell you a secret: Piazza dell’Anfiteatro in Lucca is like Italy’s hidden treasure. You might not have heard about this Tuscan city and its square, but believe us, you need to see it. Why? The oval-shaped Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, lined with cafes and restaurants, rests upon the ruins of the ancient Roman amphitheatre from the second half of the 1st century AD.
This very spot was once the stage for epic gladiator battles, hosting up to 10,000 spectators. But don’t worry, there are no lions or chariots here anymore, just colourful buildings with outdoor cafes. The original structure now lies about three metres below the ground surface. You can still see the remaining vaults and arches, which the locals cleverly incorporated into the surrounding houses. The square’s current appearance dates back to the 19th century when the architect Lorenzo Nottolini raised some of the buildings inside the oval.
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7. Piazzale Michelangelo in Florence
Have you ever laid eyes on those breathtaking Florence images and wondered, “Where exactly were those snapped? Well, that’s the stunning view you get from Piazzale Michelangelo or Michelangelo Square in English. It’s like Florence saying, “Hey, look at me, ain’t I stunning?” And you can’t help but agree.
Architect Poggi built Piazzale Michelangelo on the hill above Florence when Florence over 150 years ago served as the Italian capital. Today, Piazzale Michelangelo is one of the most famous piazzas in Italy. Everyone flocks here to catch a glimpse of the entire city: Brunelleschi’s Dome, the Arno River, and even Palazzo Vecchio.
But besides the breathtaking vista, this charming open space also hosts a bronze replica of Michelangelo’s David. So, if you’re up for a scenic stroll, head over to Piazzale Michelangelo for a taste of Florence’s finest panoramas. Catch the sunset and watch as the sky transforms into a canvas of orange and pink hues.
8. Piazza Navona in Rome
Looking for squares in Italy with a history as rich as a triple-layer tiramisu? Look no further than Piazza Navona in Rome. This vibrant hotspot with lively bars, restaurants, painters and musicians holds more than meets the eye.
Did you know that Piazza Navona has a fascinating past? In ancient times, this was the site of the Stadium of Domitian. Romans gathered to watch thrilling athletic contests (agones), chariot races and other sports. They called it the “Circus Agonalis“, which basically means “competition arena.” Over time, its name changed from “in avone” to what we call it now – Piazza Navona.
Piazzas in Italy: Piazza Navona’s layout mirrors that of a 1st-century AD stadium. After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the stadium fell into disrepair. Today, its remains still lie below the church of Sant’Agnese in Agone.
Present appearance
Piazza Navona underwent a stunning transformation under the watchful eye of Pope Innocent X in the 17th century. The ruler of the Papal state turned this square into a masterpiece of Baroque Roman architecture. He commissioned a new church, ornate fountains and the majestic Palazzo Pamphilj, his family’s residence.
The star of the show is the iconic Fountain of the Four Rivers with four statues representing the River Nile, Danube, Ganges and Rio de la Plata. The famous architect and sculptor Bernini designed this fountain with the Egyptian obelisk in the middle. And let’s not forget the Fontana del Moro on the square’s south end and the Fountain of Neptune on its northern end.
FUN FACT:
Until the mid-19th century, Piazza Navona was not just a square – it was the “Lake of Piazza Navona“ during the hot summer months. Locals would block the drains of the three fountains, flooding the square and turning it into an aquatic playground. August became the perfect time to cool off and enjoy watery fun.
9. Piazza del Duomo in Florence
If there’s one more place you absolutely must see in Florence, it’s Piazza del Duomo. This square steals the spotlight every time, drawing millions of visitors from around the world. Why? Because it’s home to the Florence Cathedral, the largest building in medieval Europe and the 4th largest church in the world by size. The Duomo of Florence, or the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, and its magnificent dome is a true masterpiece. It stands as a testament to human creativity and craftsmanship.
The Duomo of Florence and the Giotto’s Bell Tower
Right nearby, you’ll find the stunning Giotto’s Campanile, a fancy bell tower offering some of the best views of Brunelleschi’s dome. This skinny tower with a gorgeous design was, together with the cathedral, the symbol of wealth and power in the city in the 13th and 14th centuries. And let’s not forget the octagonal Baptistery of St. John, one of Florence’s oldest buildings. Afterwards, explore the Opera del Duomo Museum, which contains the original works from the cathedral and other masterpieces by Michelangelo, Donatello and many others.
10. Piazza della Rotonda in Rome
Ever wondered why the Piazza della Rotonda in Rome is a big deal? It’s because this almost rectangular square is home to the Pantheon, one of the best-preserved ancient Roman buildings. This structure boasts the world’s largest unsupported concrete dome.
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The history of the Piazza della Rotonda is fascinating. Originally, this area wasn’t as open. The ground was much lower, with marble steps leading into the Pantheon during the Roman period. Sadly, these steps are now buried beneath the square. Also, the square looked quite different in the past.
In the 15th century, the pope cleared out filthy shops and sheds, laying the groundwork for the piazza we see today. Its beautiful features, such as the Pantheon’s fountain and the obelisk of Ramses II, were absent. Instead, in the 19th century, a lively bird market with smelly bird cages took centre stage. Later, Pope Pius VII and Pius IX took action, banning vendors, removing nearby buildings, and expanding the square. And boy, they did an excellent job! Their effort transformed the Piazza della Rotonda into one of the most famous squares in Rome and Italy.
11. Piazza Bra in Verona
Let us whisk you away to Piazza Bra, the beating heart of Verona and one of Italy’s finest squares. Not only is it the largest square in Verona, but it also ranks among the biggest piazzas in Italy. But size isn’t everything, right? As you step in, you’re greeted by a line-up of cozy cafes and tempting restaurants, ready to tickle your taste buds. But that’s just the beginning! Get ready for a slice of history with a side of entertainment.
Ever heard of the Verona Arena? This ancient amphitheatre has been around for around 2,000 years. Can you believe it? Nowadays, it’s not about gladiator battles; it’s a world-famous hotspot for epic music events, from operas to concerts. And get this: the Verona Arena used to accommodate a whopping 30,000 people back in the day. Now it hosts crowds of up to 22,000.
Other highlights of Piazza Bra include beautiful palaces, including Palazzo Barbieri (now Verona’s town hall). Right in the middle stands a horse-riding statue of the Italian King Vittorio Emanuelle II. It’s like he’s saying: Hey, look at me, I’m the king of the square and the first king of Italy!” And let’s not forget about the garden, shaded by cedar and pine trees. Yes, Bra’s got its own garden oasis with a fountain within the square. Locals often refer to this giant citrus-themed water feature as the “Lemon Squeezer”, thanks to its unique shape. It’s a souvenir from Verona’s friendship with Munich – Verona got the fountain, and Munich got a statue of Juliet in return.
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12. Piazza Maggiore in Bologna
Want to know why everyone who visited Bologna talks about Piazza Maggiore? This massive space is one of the biggest piazzas in Italy. It measures a whopping 115 meters (377 ft) in length and 60 metres (197 ft) in width. Imagine standing in the middle, surrounded by some of the most important buildings in the medieval city.
Now, let’s talk about its unique features. Ever heard of the “crescentone?’’ It’s a cool nickname for a funky pedestrian platform in the central part of the square. The locals built this 15 cm (6 in) raised rectangle platform of white and pink granite in the 1930s. Why the name? Well, it’s because it resembles a giant piece of savoury focaccia bread, which is a Bolognese speciality.
DID YOU KNOW?
Piazza Maggiore is one of the very first squares built in Italy after the fall of the Roman Empire. Bologna had its open space long before Florence and Siena got their famous squares. To do that, the Municipality had to demolish many buildings, including several towers.
Fast forward to the 16th century, and Piazza Maggiore got a serious makeover. Thanks to some papal magic, the nearby Piazza del Nettuno with a gorgeous fountain and the swanky Palazzo dell’Archiginnasio joined the party. And let’s not forget about other stunning landmarks surrounding the square. You’ve got the oldest building overlooking the square – the Palazzo del Podesta, dating back to the 13th century. Then, there is the 14th-century Palazzo Comunale, currently home to the Municipality of Bologna and some fancy art collections. And don’t miss one of the world’s largest churches – the 14th-century Basilica of San Petronio with the unfinished façade. It’s famous for Gorgeous Italian Gothic architecture and the longest indoor sundial in the world.
13. Piazza del Duomo in Milan
If you’ve ever visited Milan, you know that Piazza del Duomo is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. This expansive rectangular square, spanning 17,000 square meters (about 183,000 square feet), stands out at the heart of Milan. Right at its centre rises the majestic Duomo Cathedral with its ornate façade and charming terrace. You’ve also got the 18th century Palazzo Reale, the Museum of the XIX century and the elegant century shopping arcade. Look closely, and you’ll find the arch marking the entrance to the 19th-century Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. It’s famous for its stunning ceilings and luxurious boutiques.
But let’s rewind a bit to the 14th century. This is when Azzone Visconti, the lord of Milan, decided it was time for a makeover. He cleared out taverns to make way for what would eventually become Cathedral Square. Fast forward a few centuries, and voila! Piazza del Duomo is bustling with life, crowned by the statue of the first king of the independent Italy standing proudly in the centre.
14. Piazza delle Erbe in Verona
Let us tell you why Piazza delle Erbe is one of the finest squares in Italy. Back in the day, this charming open space was the heart of Roman Verona. It used to be a Roman Forum, bustling with trade and locals who gathered here to gossip and swap news. Then, as the centuries rolled by, it transformed into a marketplace, selling everything from fruits and vegetables to spices. Hence, its name is Piazza delle Erbe or Herb’s Square in English.
The oldest square in Verona is like a time machine of Italian history, with colourful market stalls and a lively atmosphere. What makes it unique? The beautiful Mazzanti houses with impressive Renaissance frescoes entirely decorated the buildings. They were in the possession of powerful families, which showed off wealth and good taste. Verona earned the nickname “the painted city” thanks to these architectural gems. That’s why Piazza delle Erbe needs to be on your list of must-visit piazzas in Italy.
the Mazzanti houses
Apart from the Mazzanti Houses, Piazza delle Erbe in Verona is famous for stunning architecture, such as the 84-metre-tall Lamberti Tower and the Baroque Palazzo Maffei. There’s also a beautiful 14th-century fountain with a Roman statue dating to 380 AD.
15. Piazza del Popolo in Rome
If there is one more square you should visit in Rome, it’s the oval-shaped Piazza del Popolo. This large square has fascinating stories to tell!
During the Roman Empire, this was the primary gateway to Rome for travellers arriving from the north via the Via Flaminia. Towering poplar trees once grew in this area, inspiring the square’s name. However, beneath its charming look lie some dark secrets.
Nero’s Legacy
Legend has it that this entire area was a cursed place haunted by Emperor Nero’s ghost. Romans believed this to be Nero’s burial ground, casting fear over the locals for centuries. Pope Paschall II took action: he ordered the cutting down of a walnut tree, revealing Nero’s tomb beneath. The pope exhumed Nero’s remains, scattered his ashes into the waters of the Tiber River and claimed the Virgin Mary told him to do so. Then he erected Santa Maria del Popolo, one of Rome’s earliest Renaissance churches, on this site.
Why is today Piazza del Popolo one of the best piazzas in Italy?
But enough about the past – let’s talk about what you can see today. Piazza del Popolo got a makeover in the 19th century. At its heart stands a giant Egyptian obelisk, the second-oldest and tallest in Rome. Then we have here two twin churches: Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Santa Maria in Montesanto, sitting pretty on opposite ends of the square. And let’s not forget the Basilica Santa Maria del Popolo, which houses masterpieces by Caravaggio and Pinturicchio. Here’s a little bonus nugget for you: Raphael himself designed its stunning Chigi Chapel – make sure you don’t miss it.
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Climb the steps to Terraza del Pincio – this terrace offers breathtaking panoramic views of Piazza del Popolo and Rome’s iconic landmarks.
Now you know what 15 Must-See Piazzas in Italy are!
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