Porta del Popolo

gate, Rome, Italy

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Last updated

July 1, 2026

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The Porta del Popolo is a historic gate in Rome, Italy, marking the ceremonial entrance to the city from the north via the Via Flaminia. Originally a medieval gate, it was rebuilt in 1561 and later modified by Gian Lorenzo Bernini for the grand entrance of Queen Christina of Sweden.1

The gate is situated in the Piazza del Popolo, a large oval square that served as a ceremonial entryway to Rome for centuries. The piazza itself features an obelisk brought from Egypt by Emperor Augustus and is flanked by two "twin" churches designed by Carlo Rainaldi. The church of Santa Maria del Popolo, located next to the gate, gives the area its name and contains significant works by Renaissance and Baroque artists like Caravaggio and Raphael. The Porta del Popolo is part of the ancient Aurelian Wall, which still largely encircles Rome's historic center.1

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Rome
Piazza del Popolo
In 1561 the Porta del Popolo, the medieval gate in the city wall, was rebuilt. Ninety-four years later its inner face was redone by Bernini for the grand entrance of Queen Christina, who had abandoned the Protestant throne of Sweden for the hospitality of Catholic Rome. In 1589…
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In 1561 the Porta del Popolo, the medieval gate in the city wall, was rebuilt. Ninety-four years later its inner face was redone by Bernini for the grand entrance of Queen Christina, who had abandoned the Protestant throne of Sweden for the hospitality of Catholic Rome. In 1589…
Read More