Piazza Barberini in Rome: Bernini's Triton Fountain and what is around it
Piazza Barberini is a busy square in central Rome, between the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain and Via Veneto. It is dominated by Bernini's Triton Fountain (1642-1643): a kneeling triton on a shell held up by four dolphins blows a jet of water into the sky. At the corner of Via Veneto stands the little Fountain of the Bees (1644), by the same sculptor. The square takes 10 minutes to see; its interest is mainly as the gateway to Palazzo Barberini, the Capuchin Crypt and Via Veneto. Allow 10 minutes for the square, 2 hours with Palazzo Barberini.
Highlights
The Triton Fountain
Commissioned by Pope Urban VIII Barberini, it is one of Rome's best-known Baroque fountains. Bees, the Barberini family emblem, decorate the base of the shell.
Bernini's details
Look at the dolphins, whose tails hold up the shell, and the papal coat of arms between them. The more discreet Fountain of the Bees is at the foot of Via Veneto.
Around the square
Palazzo Barberini and its national gallery (Caravaggio, Raphael) are 5 minutes on foot. The Capuchin Crypt is on nearby Via Veneto.
Practical info
Tips
- The square is a very noisy road junction: take photos early in the morning. It is served by the metro and is a good starting point for climbing up Via Veneto or walking down to the Trevi Fountain (10 minutes on foot). Avoid the terraces around the square, expensive for the quality served.
How to get there
Piazza Barberini, 00187 Rome. Metro A, Barberini station, direct exit onto the square. The Trevi Fountain is 10 minutes on foot, and Via Veneto starts at the corner of the square.
Opening hours
Nearby
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