A Georgia Girl in Germany

After the noon Papal Blessing at the Vatican, we headed to Painter’s Square to explore this famous Christmas market. On the way there, we passed the Castel San Angelo -- St. Angelo’s Castle (above) -- with the Angel Bridge over the Tiber River in front of it.

We also passed the Justice Palace, which houses Italy’s high court (similar to the U.S. Supreme Court). The architecture of this building was stunning.

As we neared Painter’s Square -- also known as Piazza Navona -- we came to 2nd century remains of the stage of the Stadio di Domiziano – Stage of Domitian -- under Piazza Navona. These ruins were one story below street level, and were clearly visible as we passed by. It amazes me how such ruins seem to be everywhere!


When we arrived at the square, we were met by Santa and two of his reindeer. They were relaxing after a long night’s journey delivering gifts around the world.

The fountains in the square were beautiful. The Fontana del Nettuno -- Fountain of Neptune -- was built in 1576 by Giacomo della Porta.


There were also several human statues in the square. We’ve seen other performers like these in many larger cities throughout Europe. I’m not sure who these two people represented, but the silver one shook MacKenzie’s hand after she made a donation in his can.




Above is the Fontana del Moro -- the Moor Fountain -- by Giacomo della Porta and Bernini. It takes its name from the group of sculptures of the tank representing an Ethiopian fighting with a dolphin

At right is another fountain in the square -- the baroque Fountain of the Four Rivers by Bernini. It was being cleaned and repaired when we were there, so we had to peer between boards and scaffolding to see it. Giants were sitting on the group of rocks and symbolize the rivers of the four continents: the Nile, the Ganges, the Danube and the River of the Plata. The obelisk dating from Domitian's reign rises from on top of the fountain.

There was even a merry-go-round in the square, and the kids wouldn’t let me skip taking them for a spin. Merry-go-rounds are always such wonderful entertainment.


At the opposite end of the square, we lucked into finding a street performer. He was very talented...from juggling atop a unicycle, to juggling flaming batons, he kept the crowd’s interest.