Piazza Navona in Rome, Italy

Piazza Navona is one of the most iconic squares in Rome, celebrated for its elegant Baroque architecture, rich history, and vibrant atmosphere. Located in the heart of the historic centre, it occupies the site of the ancient Stadium of Domitian, built in the 1st century AD. Piazza Navona retains the elongated, oval shape of the original stadium, once used for athletic competitions.

During the 17th century, Piazza Navona was transformed into a masterpiece of Baroque urban design under Pope Innocent X, whose family palace, the Palazzo Pamphilj, faces the square. The centerpiece of the piazza is the Fountain of the Four Rivers (Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi), created by the renowned sculptor Gian Lorenzo Bernini. This dramatic fountain features representations of four major rivers from four continents—the Nile, Ganges, Danube, and Río de la Plata—symbolizing the reach of papal authority across the world.

Opposite Bernini’s fountain stands Sant’Agnese in Agone, a beautiful Baroque church designed by Francesco Borromini. The church marks the traditional site of the martyrdom of Saint Agnes and adds to the spiritual and artistic ambiance of the square.

At either end of the piazza are two additional fountains: the Fontana del Moro and the Fontana del Nettuno, both adorned with dynamic sculptures. Today, Piazza Navona is a vibrant social hub, filled with street artists, musicians, and open-air cafes. Visitors flock here to enjoy the lively atmosphere, admire the art and architecture, and soak in the charm of Rome’s past and present.

Whether visited by day or lit by lamplight at night, Piazza Navona remains a captivating symbol of Rome’s enduring beauty and cultural richness.

 

Byodo-In Temple in Oahu, Hawaii

Located near the eastern shore of Oahu in the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park, the Byodo-In Temple in Hawaii is a non-denomination shrine and half-sized replica of the Byodo-In Buddhist Temple found in Kyoto, Japan. It was constructed in 1968 to commemorate the centennial of the first Japanese immigrants to come to Hawaii.

During my road trip around Oahu, I stopped at the Byodo-In Temple to tour the lush gardens. Massive koi ponds surround the temple, and a number of onlookers tossed fish food into the ponds stirring the koi into a frenzy. The scenery, architecture, and peacefulness of the surroundings made exploring the Byodo-In Temple a really memorable experience. 

Spanish Steps in Rome, Italy

The Spanish Steps (Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti) are one of Rome’s most iconic and picturesque landmarks, connecting the Piazza di Spagna at the base to the Trinità dei Monti church at the top. Built between 1723 and 1726, the steps are a masterpiece of late Baroque design and a popular gathering place for both tourists and locals.

The staircase was designed by Francesco de Sanctis and funded by a French diplomat, Étienne Gueffier. Its 135 steps were created to symbolically and physically link the Spanish Embassy to the Holy See (located in the piazza below) with the French church of Trinità dei Monti above, thus bridging two influential European powers.

The Spanish Steps are celebrated for their elegant, sweeping curves and scenic vistas. At the base lies the Fontana della Barcaccia (“Fountain of the Old Boat”), sculpted by Pietro Bernini and his more famous son Gian Lorenzo Bernini. The fountain is shaped like a half-sunken boat, said to be inspired by a historic flood of the Tiber River.

Throughout the year, the steps become a stage for seasonal displays, such as blooming azaleas in spring, which add to their charm. They are also a popular fashion spot, often featured in films and photo shoots, including in the classic movie Roman Holiday starring Audrey Hepburn.

Although sitting on the steps was once a Roman tradition, it has been discouraged in recent years to preserve the monument. Still, the Spanish Steps remain a favorite location for enjoying views of Rome, people-watching, and soaking up the city’s romantic atmosphere. As a meeting point between art, architecture, and everyday life, the Spanish Steps embody the timeless elegance of Rome.