Via del Corso

Via del Corso, located in the heart of Rome, is one of the most famous and historically significant streets in the city. This street, which stretches for about 1.5 kilometers from Piazza Venezia to Piazza del Popolo, is not only one of Rome’s main commercial arteries, but also a true open-air museum that tells the city’s millennia-old history. The origins of Via del Corso date back to ancient Rome, when it was known as Via Lata. This street was part of the ancient Via Flaminia, one of the main consular roads connecting Rome to northern Italy. Over the centuries, Via Lata became one of the city’s main streets, assuming great importance both commercially and socially. In the Middle Ages, Via del Corso underwent numerous changes. It was often used for processions and festivities, becoming a focal point of Roman public life. However, it was during the Renaissance and Baroque periods that Via del Corso reached its peak. Many aristocratic palaces were built along the street, transforming it into an elegant and prestigious avenue. Among these palaces, one of the most notable is Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, which houses one of Rome’s most important private art collections, with works by artists such as Caravaggio and Velázquez. The street owes its current name to an annual event that took place from the 15th century until the 19th century: the race of the Berber horses. This race, which took place during the Roman Carnival, saw riderless horses racing along the street from Piazza del Popolo to Piazza Venezia. The event was a major attraction for Romans and contributed to giving the street the name “del Corso.” Via del Corso is also rich in religious buildings of great importance. Among these stands out the Church of San Carlo al Corso, a magnificent example of Baroque architecture, and the Church of Santa Maria in Via Lata, which according to Christian tradition was the place where St. Paul lived during his stay in Rome. Another point of interest along Via del Corso is Piazza Colonna, named after the presence of the Column of Marcus Aurelius, an imposing monument erected to commemorate the military victories of the Roman emperor. Next to the square is Palazzo Chigi, the current seat of the Italian government, another example of Renaissance architecture that testifies to the political importance of the area. Over time, Via del Corso has become one of the main shopping streets in Rome. The street is lined with a wide range of shops, from luxury boutiques to more affordable fashion chains. Among the high-fashion stores are international brands like Zara, H&M, Armani Exchange, and even the new Apple Store, located in the prestigious Palazzo Marignoli, a restored historic building that blends classical architecture with modern elements. The street is often closed to traffic during holidays and events, becoming a pedestrian area where Romans and tourists can stroll and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city. During Christmas, Via del Corso lights up with festive decorations, creating a magical atmosphere that attracts visitors from around the world.