Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi

Beautiful fountain in the heart of the repurposed Stadium of Domitian. The fountain was carved by Bernini in the mid 1600’s, and is one of his most famous works. Each of the sides represents four massive rivers on the four known Continents—the Nile, the Danube, the Ganges and Rio de la Plata.

This was our favourite fountain in Rome (so far). Went at night. Really beautiful with the church facade behind. Also some good places to eat nearby, though the best ones are typically not on the square. Try some of the back alleys for a more authentic experience.

Beautiful and relaxing spot to walk and unwind in the heart of Rome. The piazza is very walkable with plenty of charming cafés to grab an espresso or cappuccino. I loved listening to street musicians and watching local artists draw and paint live—it really adds to the atmosphere. The only downside is the lack of public restrooms and shaded seating areas, especially on hot sunny days. Still, a must-visit for the vibe alone!

Located at the center of Piazza Navona. The fountain is dramatic, full of movement and symbolism. Each river god is sculpted with incredible detail and expression, surrounded by exotic animals and plants, while a towering ancient Egyptian obelisk rises at the center. It’s a breathtaking work of art that combines water, stone, and storytelling — a highlight of any visit to Rome. Whether you're admiring it by day or lit up at night, it leaves a powerful impression. **Tip:** Stand at different angles to catch the full beauty of each figure — and don’t forget to look up at the obelisk!

Standing before the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi in Piazza Navona is to be swept up in one of Rome’s most breathtaking moments. Designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini between 1648 and 1651, this fountain is more than just water and stone — it is living symbolism, Baroque drama, and the sculptor’s genius all in one.  At the center rises the elegant Egyptian obelisk, topped with the Pamphili family emblem — a dove with an olive branch — linking papal power to ancient Rome’s majestic past.  Around it stand four colossal river gods, each representing one of the world’s major rivers known at that time: the Danube of Europe, the Nile of Africa, the Ganges of Asia, and the Río de la Plata from the Americas.  I loved how each figure has its own personality: the Nile with its head draped — because its source was then unknown; the Río de la Plata looking startled, perched atop a mound of coins as if fearful its riches might spill; the Ganges with an oar, speaking of navigation; the Danube reaching toward the papal coat of arms.  What makes the fountain magical isn’t just the sculptural mastery, but how it feels alive — water gushing, flowing, splashing over jagged travertine rocks; surprising glimpses of animals, plants, and creatures hiding in nooks; the obelisk soaring skyward; light and shadow dancing across marble and stone.  As you walk around it, you catch new details: the expressions, the movement, how the bodies twist in tension, how nature and mythology mingle. The fountain doesn’t just sit in the square — it dominates it, binding together the church of Sant’Agnese in Agone, the palazzo of the Pamphili, and the ancient history beneath your feet.  If you visit in the evening, the glow of the lights makes the water sparkle, turning the fountain into something dreamlike. Even during bustling daytime crowds, there’s a sort of hush when you really look: at the roaring lion, the dripping water, the sense of centuries in stone.

Piazza Navona is gorgeous both day and night. The fountains by Bernini, especially the Four Rivers, are works of art. The fact that this space used to be an ancient Roman stadium makes its long oval shape make sense. Now it’s full of cafes, performers, and atmosphere.

Bernini in all his baroque glory. Four statues, four rivers, and an obelisk plopped right in the center — originally dragged here from an ancient Roman circus. Each figure represents a river from a different continent: the Nile, Ganges, Danube, and Río de la Plata. Dramatic faces, flowing robes, theatrical gestures — like a marble soap opera. Most people just snap photos and wonder what it all means… well, now you know. 😄

Gorgeous fountain built in 17th century when Roman knew only about 4 continents in the world so this fountain represents 4 men each representing biggest river, Ganga in Asia, Nile in Africa, Danube in Europe and Rio de la Plata in Americas. Very interesting and so beautifully designed, sculptures of men from each continent carved in such details. It's amazing!