Piazza della Repubblica – Rome, Italy
The piazza is located at the top of the Viminal Hill, near the Termini train station. The distinctive semi-circular palaces lining the square (known as the Palazzi dell’Esedra) were designed by architect Gaetano Koch and built between 1887 and 1898. Their curved shape mimics the exedra (a large semi-circular recess) of the ancient Baths of Diocletian, the remains of which are located across the square.
The arms of the loggia and interior passageways provide impressive places for people to walk and gather, protected from the weather.
The prominent feature in the center of the roundabout is the Fountain of the Naiads (Fontana delle Naiadi). It was initially commissioned by Pope Pius IX to mark the terminus of the Acqua Pia Antica Marcia aqueduct. The four bronze sculptures of the naked nymphs (naiads) were added in 1901 by sculptor Mario Rutelli and caused a scandal at the time due to their sensuality and lifelike poses. The central sculpture, depicting the sea god Glaucus wrestling a dolphin, was added in 1912, completing the fountain’s current design. The entire work is considered a significant example of Art Nouveau in Rome.
The Octagonal Hall of the Baths of Diocletian is part of the extensive National Roman Museum complex and houses the Museum of Rescued Art (Museo dell’Arte Salvata). The Hall was originally part of the immense Baths of Diocletian, built between 298 and 306 AD. Its exact purpose within the bath complex is uncertain, but it may have served as a secondary frigidarium (cold bath area). The building has a square exterior but an octagonal interior, surmounted by a majestic “umbrella” dome. The ancient floor level was much lower than it is today, as the hall was used as a grain store in the 17th century. In 1928, the hall was converted into a planetarium, utilizing its dome to project the celestial sky. This use ceased in the 1980s, and the building now houses the Museum of Rescued Art, which showcases archaeological finds and artworks recovered by authorities after being illegally exported or stolen.
Finally, on one of the approaching streets are these kiosks. They were primarily occupied by book sellers. This was a clever adaptation for where the buildings did not allow for retail use and the street was sufficiently wide.