Hi, I’m Gianluca.
I studied cultural anthropology, and I’ve always been fascinated by the different ways people live, move, and experience a place.
Rome is not only my city – it’s the environment I love observing, understanding, and sharing through these small stories.
Together with my wife Connie, we host travellers in our small hotel near the Vatican, where we enjoy meeting people from all over the world and exchanging perspectives – just as I do here in the blog.
If you ever feel like saying hello while exploring Rome, you’ll find us on our terrace as well, where every morning we serve breakfast with a view.
Gianluca
Just a 10-minute direct metro ride from the doorstep of QuodLibet Bed and Breakfast, Piazza Esedra (now officially known as Piazza della Repubblica) is one of Rome’s most fascinating squares, steeped in history and adorned with striking architectural and artistic elements. At its center stands the stunning Fountain of the Naiads, a sculptural masterpiece that captivates visitors with its grace and mythological allure. Whether you’re exploring Roman ruins, elegant buildings, or cultural landmarks, Piazza Esedra is a must-visit spot in the Eternal City.
The Origins of Piazza Esedra
The square takes its name from the exedra, or semi-circular structure, of the ancient Baths of Diocletian that once stood here. The Baths, built between 298 and 306 CE, were the largest public bathing complex in ancient Rome, covering an area of over 13 hectares. While much of the complex fell into ruin after the fall of the Roman Empire, its grand layout inspired the design of Piazza Esedra during Rome’s urban renewal in the 19th century.
With the unification of Italy and the establishment of Rome as the capital, Piazza Esedra was developed as part of a new, modern vision for the city. The semicircular porticoes that frame the square echo the original exedra of the baths, creating a harmonious blend of antiquity and modernity.
The Fountain of the Naiads: A Masterpiece of Myth and Elegance
At the center of the square is the breathtaking Fountain of the Naiads, one of Rome’s most celebrated fountains. Here’s what makes it truly special:
The Naiads and Their Symbolism
The fountain was originally constructed in 1888 with simple lion sculptures spouting water. However, in 1901, these lions were replaced by bronze naiads—water nymphs associated with rivers, springs, and seas—sculpted by Mario Rutelli, a Sicilian artist. Each naiad represents a different type of water:
- The Lake Nymph (Naiade dei Laghi) reclines on a swan, symbolizing the placid beauty of freshwater lakes.
- The River Nymph (Naiade dei Fiumi) holds a snake, representing the dynamic flow of rivers.
- The Ocean Nymph (Naiade degli Oceani) rides a wild sea horse, embodying the powerful surge of the ocean.
- The Spring Nymph (Naiade delle Acque Sotterranee) holds a mysterious lizard, signifying underground springs.
At the center of the fountain stands a dramatic sculpture of Glaucus, a sea god, wrestling a dolphin—a representation of mankind’s triumph over nature.
A Controversial Debut
When the fountain was unveiled in 1901, it caused quite a stir. The sensual and lifelike depictions of the naiads were deemed scandalous by some for being too provocative. However, the fountain’s artistic merit was undeniable, and it soon became a symbol of Rome’s embrace of modernity and beauty.
What to See Nearby
Piazza Esedra is not just home to the fountain—it’s also surrounded by remarkable sites and cultural landmarks:
- Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri
- Built within the remains of the Baths of Diocletian and designed by Michelangelo, this basilica is a stunning fusion of Roman grandeur and Renaissance architecture. Its meridian line, added in the 18th century, served as a solar clock used to calculate the exact time.
- Baths of Diocletian (Museo Nazionale Romano)
- A short walk away is the entrance to the National Roman Museum housed within the ancient baths. Visitors can explore the vast ruins and learn about the history of Roman daily life through archaeological exhibits.
- Teatro dell’Opera di Roma
- Just a few minutes from Piazza Esedra, the Rome Opera House is a cultural institution where you can enjoy world-class performances of opera, ballet, and concerts.
- Piazza della Repubblica Shopping Area
- The surrounding streets are lined with boutiques, shops, and cafes, making this area ideal for a leisurely stroll or a shopping break.
The Legacy of Piazza Esedra
Piazza Esedra stands as a testament to Rome’s ability to evolve while preserving its ancient roots. The square bridges the gap between antiquity and the modern city, offering a glimpse into the past while serving as a vibrant part of present-day life.
For guests staying at QuodLibet Bed and Breakfast, a visit to Piazza Esedra is just a 10-minute metro ride away via Line A from Ottaviano station to Repubblica station. From the beauty of the Fountain of the Naiads to the awe-inspiring Santa Maria degli Angeli, it’s a perfect stop for those who want to experience Rome’s historical, cultural, and artistic splendor.
