Piazza della Rotonda

The Basics

Piazza della Rotonda was created in the mid-15th century when Pope Eugenius IV decided to clear the mass of market stalls and urban hovels that were spoiling the view of the Pantheon. The fanciful marble fountain was built in 1575 by Giacomo della Porta, to which a baroque Egyptian-style obelisk was added in 1711.

Private or small-group tours of Rome’s most famous landmarks generally include a stop in Piazza della Rotonda, as do themed tours highlighting classical Roman or baroque sights. In addition to this important square, skip-the-line Rome highlights tours may include the Colosseum, Vatican, and Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi). You can opt for a walking tour or see the piazza by luxury van, scooter, or golf cart. For a more romantic visit, join a tour at sunset or by night, when the Pantheon is dramatically lit and the square is particularly beautiful.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The square is pedestrian only and crowded with street performers, so a nice stop for families with young children.

• If joining a tour of the historical center of Rome and Piazza della Rotonda on foot, wear comfortable shoes and a sun hat.

• The public square is easy to navigate with a wheelchair or stroller, though the cobblestones can make crossing a bit bumpy.

• A number of Rome’s most beloved cafés and gelato shops are in or near the square, making this the perfect spot for a quick espresso or cone.

How to Get There

Piazza della Rotonda is located in the historical city center of Rome, about halfway between the Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona. To reach the square from the Termini train station, take one of several buses to the Argentina stop on Largo di Torre Argentina, a quick walk away.

When to Get There

Piazza della Rotonda is a lively spot to visit year-round. To get a comprehensive feel for the square, come during the day and again at night, when the Pantheon is lit. On summer evenings the space is crowded with buskers and street musicians, making it especially magical.

The Pantheon

The square is named for Santa Maria Rotonda, the official name of the Pantheon. This remarkable building dates from 27 BC, but was entirely reconstructed by Emperor Hadrian in the early second century AD. It is almost completely intact, and the interior is illuminated by a shaft of sunlight peeping through the round oculus in the dome. The building is the resting place of Italian kings Vittorio Emanuele II and Umberto I, as well as the artist Raphael.

Ways to explore

Day or night, you’ll be charmed by the piazza and its people-watching opportunities. Many private and small-group tours of Rome’s most famous landmarks include a stop in Piazza della Rotonda to admire the Pantheon, as do themed tours that highlight classical Roman or baroque sights. Options include walking tours, popular golf cart tours, and visits with a private driver, while some food tours make a stop here for gelato. For a more romantic visit, join a tour at sunset or by night, when the Pantheon is dramatically lit and the square is particularly beautiful.

Accessibility

The square is accessible to all, although the cobblestones may make using a wheelchair more difficult.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Water bottle and sunscreen in summer

What to wear

If you’re visiting the Pantheon, be aware that churches require relatively modest dress: Cover your knees and shoulders.

Not allowed

Don’t even think about getting that coffee to-go: Sit down and watch the world go by.

Amenities

Cafés, gelato stores, restaurants

Address

Piazza della Rotonda is in the historical city center of Rome, less than a 5-minute walk from Piazza Navona.

Driving

Much of Rome’s historic center is closed to drivers who don’t hold specific permits. Walk, use public transportation, take a taxi or a rideshare, or join a tour.

Public transportation

Piazza della Rotonda is about a 15-minute walk from the nearest metro station, Barberini (line A). From Roma Termini train station, bus options include the 64 and 70 to the Argentina stop on Largo di Torre Argentina, a 5-minute walk away.

Best times to visit

Piazza della Rotonda is lively day and night, but at its most magical on warm evenings when street musicians play and the Pantheon is lit.

Best days to visit

There’s no bad day or time to visit Piazza della Rotonda. The Pantheon is open daily from morning through early evening.

Best months to visit

To enjoy the alfresco cafés, it’s best to visit in the warmer months of the year (May through October).

Special events

For Pentecost, in May or June, 50 days after Catholic Easter, a spectacular rain of red rose petals falls through the Pantheon’s Oculus.