Piazza Venezia: What You’ll See at Rome’s Grand Crossroads

Rome's Piazza Venezia sits, next to Palazzo Venezia, from which it takes its name. At its center stands the monument to Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the main sights to see in Rome.

Here's what to see at this famous Roman monument, which really should be on your Rome itinerary.

History of Piazza Venezia in Rome

The monument to Vittorio Emanuele II (1885-1925) was built in honor of the first king of a unified Italy. The project meant renovating the whole surrounding area and demolishing houses, palaces and churches tied to the traditions of Rome: the square, once handsome and imposing in a compact way, became large and monumental.

It owes its current look to a remodeling carried out between 1885 and 1911. It lies within the neighborhood known as Pigna, beside Palazzo Venezia, from which it takes its name.

The Barberi Race

The square was the finish line for the famous «Corsa dei Barberi«, a riderless horse race held during carnival season all the way along Via del Corso. The square served as the final meeting point for the event.

Building the colossal monument to Vittorio Emanuele II radically transformed the whole area around the Capitoline Hill.

On the side opposite Palazzo Venezia a «twin» palace was built for Assicurazioni Generali (Italy's leading insurance company), while Palazzetto Venezia, which stood in front of the monument, was taken apart and rebuilt further back.

Mussolini in Piazza Venezia

The famous speech Mussolini gave from a balcony in Rome, announcing war, was delivered from Palazzo Venezia. On June 10, 1940, his words announcing war alongside Nazi Germany were caught on film, and you can watch and hear the crowd shouting: «War! War!»

Today the monument holds the tomb of the «Unknown Soldier»,  created in honor of all the unidentified soldiers who died in World War I.

Visiting the Monument to Vittorio Emanuele II

The striking monument, built entirely of white marble, reaches a height of 70 meters. A row of imposing Corinthian columns and a broad staircase give shape to this controversial work.

Controversial because its construction meant tearing down an entire medieval neighborhood, including buildings of great value. The giant monument didn't improve its reputation among Romans until it was opened to all citizens.

It's such an important monument that we've included it in our suggested itinerary for what to see in Rome in one day.

Piazza Venezia prices and opening hours

One of the best parts of the visit is the spectacular panoramic terrace, with an incredible view over Piazza Venezia.

• Entry to the monument is free. It's open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. (last admission at 6:45 p.m.).
• The elevator up to the terrace costs €10 (€5 for ages 18-25). It's an affordable option if you're visiting Rome with kids, since the elevator is free for under-18s and for visitors with disabilities and their companion.
• You can go up to the Monument to Victor Emmanuel II viewpoint for free with the Go City Rome Pass.

Next to the Monument to Victor Emmanuel II you'll find Piazza del Campidoglio and the Capitoline Museums. Not far away are the Roman Forum and the Colosseum.

How to get to Piazza Venezia

Address: Piazza Venezia. The nearest metro station is Colosseo, about a 15-minute walk away.