Campo de' Fiori Market
Lazio
Campo de' Fiori is a lively and historic square located in the heart of Rome, Italy, between the Parione and Regola districts. Its name, meaning 'Field of Flowers,' dates back to the Middle Ages when the area was a meadow. The square was paved in 1456 by Cardinal Ludovico Trevisani under Pope Callixtus III, marking its transformation from undeveloped land into a bustling urban space. Campo de' Fiori has always been a commercial hub, surrounded by streets named after traditional trades such as crossbow-makers and hat-makers. It was historically part of the 'Pope's road,' a route linking the Vatican to the Basilica of St. John Lateran. The square is also known for its darker history as the site of public executions, most notably the burning alive of philosopher Giordano Bruno in 1600. A monument dedicated to Bruno, created by Ettore Ferrari in 1889, stands defiantly facing the Vatican. Since 1869, Campo de' Fiori hosts a daily market selling fresh flowers, fruits, vegetables, meat, and fish, maintaining its vibrant street culture. Despite being the only historic square in Rome without a church, it remains a popular meeting place by day for shoppers and by night for tourists and locals enjoying its cafés and nightlife.
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Tip: Visit Campo de' Fiori in the morning from Monday to Saturday to experience the lively market at its best. Purchasing tickets is not required as the square is public, but plan ahead for busy weekends. Be cautious during nighttime hours due to occasional disturbances. Enjoy fresh local produce and take photos of the historic monument to Giordano Bruno. Arriving early helps avoid crowds and ensures the best selection at market stalls.
Interesting facts
- •The square's name means 'Field of Flowers' from its origins as a meadow in the Middle Ages.
- •Giordano Bruno was executed here in 1600 for heresy; a monument to him was erected in 1889.
- •Campo de' Fiori was historically a horse market twice a week and a hub for inns and shops.
- •The ancient cattle fountain 'la Terrina' was replaced by a copy in 1889, now used to keep cut flowers fresh.
- •The square is the only historic Roman piazza without a church.
- •The Talmud was publicly burned here in 1553, commemorated by a plaque installed in 2011.
History
Originally a meadow in ancient Rome, the Campo de' Fiori area remained undeveloped until the 15th century.
In 1456, the square was paved as part of urban improvements under Pope Callixtus III.
The area flourished as a commercial center with a horse market and inns.
Public executions were held here, including the notable burning of Giordano Bruno in 1600.
The square expanded in 1858 after demolition of nearby housing.
Since 1869, it has hosted a daily market, replacing the previous one in Piazza Navona.
The monument to Bruno was erected in 1889, symbolizing freedom of thought.
Place Guide
Giordano Bruno Monument1889
A bronze statue by Ettore Ferrari unveiled in 1889, marking the exact spot where the philosopher was executed. The granite base features scenes from Bruno's life and inscriptions honoring free thought.
Campo de' Fiori Market1869
A vibrant daily market held since 1869, offering fresh flowers, fruits, vegetables, meat, and fish. The market preserves the traditional Roman street commerce atmosphere with historic wooden stalls.
La Terrina Fountain1590 (original), 1889 (copy)
Originally a cattle fountain known as 'la Terrina,' replaced by a copy in 1889. The fountain is used to keep cut flowers fresh and bears the inscription 'Do good and let them talk,' reflecting the marketplace's lively nature.
Contact
Phone: 06 0608
