Study Abroad: The One Thing You Can’t Miss in… Rome, Italy

Ready to travel the world? Each month I’ll be taking you to a new abroad destination, highlighting the best spots to visit and sights to see, as recommended by college students who have experienced these locales firsthand. First up: Rome, Italy.

Piazza Campo de’ Fiori

…The one spot in Rome that students say you just can’t miss.

Set in the historic heart of Rome is the Piazza Campo de’ Fiori, an eclectic square that serves as a meeting place, shopping area and entertainment spot for locals and tourists alike. Known by locals as the “field of flowers,” the Campo de’ Fiori has two distinct identities depending on the time of day. Whatever your interests are, you are sure to enjoy the liveliness and beauty of this historic piazza.

In the mornings the Campo de’ Fiori is filled with street vendors selling flowers, fresh vegetables, clothing and other items. The atmosphere of the open-air market is very colorful and fun to explore. Shop for the best ingredients to cook a traditional Italian dish or browse the clothing and craft stalls for leather jackets or handbags. There are also several historic sites throughout the square, including the statue of Giordano Bruno, located at the center of the piazza. Giordano Bruno was a famous philosopher who was burned at the stake in the year 1600 for his eccentric views. Today, his statue stands as a tribute to other philosophers who were burned in the piazza for their ideas. Be sure to take in the view of the entire piazza from this centrally-located spot.

By the late afternoon, the Campo de’ Fiori takes on a different atmosphere as the stalls are cleared out and the streets are cleaned in preparation for the evening crowd. During this time street entertainers set up a spot on the sidewalks to sing or play instruments. In addition, locals use the space to play informal games of soccer. By sunset the piazza has a very vibrant nightlife. Many people come to meet for a drink and walk around the piazza with friends. There are also many restaurants nearby offering traditional Italian cuisine. Most offer outdoor seating, which is a great option for watching all the activity in the piazza. If you are in the mood for pizza, be sure to stop by Acchiapafantasmi Restaurant. This unique dining spot offers the classic selection of pizzas like the pizza Margarita, as well as pizzas with some less traditional ingredients like hot chili peppers. After dinner be sure to grab some gelato and admire the beautiful views of the Campo de’ Fiori at night, and most of all, enjoy Roma!

Spots with a View:

Vittorio Emanuele II Monument: Here you can ride a glass elevator to the top of the monument to get an amazing panoramic view of the center of Rome.

Janiculum Hill: Located just across the river, this spot has lots of benches to stop and take in the scenery. The atmosphere is perfect for a romantic date.

Spanish Steps: This well-known monument is even more beautiful when it is lit up at night. This is a great spot to just relax and hang out with friends.

Sources:

Amanda Jager, student, University of Washington, recently studied abroad in Rome.

Fodor’s Online.