During Carnevale, we really enjoyed the parades, fireworks, horse show and the various entertainment in the piazzas, but one of our favorite things was the theatrical light shows displayed on the gateway, Porta del Popolo, located in Piazza del Popolo.
Porta del Popolo on a regular day.
A little history on the gateway: Piazza del Popolo, known as the people’s square, was the entrance and first impression visitors received when arriving to ancient Rome. The Via Flaminia, built in 220 BC, was the road built to connect Rome to the Adriatic Coast, and was one of the most important roads leading to Rome. A gateway connected Via Flaminia to Piazza del Popolo. The large gateway was originally known as Porta Flaminia, but was later renamed Porta del Popolo (this is the name used today). The gateway we see today was reconstructed by Bernini (yes, the same Bernini who constructed the magnificent Fountain of the Four Rivers in Piazza Navona) and Pope Alexander VII in 1655.
During the light shows, images bounced around to the beat of the lively music, and it was a lot of fun to watch as the ancient gateway seemed to come to life.
You can see a video of one of the theatrical light performances below. Be sure to watch until the end for the finale. Hope you enjoy!
This light show is awesome! I love the video.
Thanks, Annie! We loved watching it … thought it was the coolest thing! 🙂
Wow, that video is amazing! They did something similar here in Florence recently. Thank you for capturing and sharing! Love, Christine
Thanks so much! Glad you enjoyed it! 🙂 I bet the one in Florence was great, too.
Fabulous post and beautiful pics Thanks for sharing
Thanks so much! Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you for stopping by! 🙂