Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II

Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, commonly known as Piazza Vittorio, is the largest square in Rome and is located in the heart of the Esquilino district. Built between 1880 and 1887, the square was dedicated to Vittorio Emanuele II, the first king of Italy, and represents a symbol of national unity after the country’s unification. The square’s design was entrusted to the architect Gaetano Koch, who designed a large rectangular area surrounded by buildings with monumental porticoes in Umbertine style, characterized by large arches and elaborate decorations. At the center of the square are the Nicola Calipari Gardens, a public park that offers a green oasis in the heart of the city. These gardens house numerous archaeological artifacts and works of art, including the famous Porta Magica. The Porta Magica, once the entrance to Villa Palombara, the residence of the alchemist Massimiliano Palombara, is adorned with alchemical symbols and inscriptions that continue to fascinate scholars and visitors. It is a mysterious and historical element that makes the gardens even more fascinating. Another point of interest in the gardens is the Fountain of the Trophies of Mario, part of the ancient Aqua Iulia aqueduct. This fountain, decorated with Roman military trophies, is an important testimony to the hydraulic engineering of ancient Rome. The fountain was moved here during the construction of the square, adding another layer of history to the place. Piazza Vittorio is also renowned for its multicultural character. Located near Termini Station, the square is a meeting point for communities of different nationalities. This aspect is evident in the market that takes place daily under the porticoes, where a wide range of food products and items from around the world can be found. The market, originally outdoors, has recently been moved to a nearby covered building, contributing to improving the order and cleanliness of the square. During the summer, the gardens host the outdoor film festival “Nights of Cinema at Piazza Vittorio”, an event that attracts both residents and tourists. This festival offers screenings of classic and contemporary films in a suggestive setting, further enriching the cultural offer of the area and making the square a center of social and cultural life. The square is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Church of Sant’Eusebio all’Esquilino, an example of early Christian architecture built in the 4th century. This church houses important works of art and relics and is a spiritual reference point for the local community. The buildings surrounding the square, with their monumental porticoes, house shops, cafes, and offices, creating a lively mix of commercial and residential activities. An interesting anecdote concerns the reputation of the square in past decades. Once, Piazza Vittorio was known to be a notorious place, frequented by drug dealers and homeless people. However, in recent years, thanks to significant urban redevelopment interventions and the vigilance of law enforcement, the square has experienced a rebirth, becoming one of the most livable and fascinating places in the city.