Piazza del Popolo

Piazza del Popolo in Ascoli Piceno, Italy, is an exquisite example of Renaissance architecture and urban design, often described as one of the most harmonious squares in Italy. This pedestrian oasis and the heart of the historic center of Ascoli Piceno is a symbolic gathering place where locals meet, stroll, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. With its elegant travertine paving and surrounding historical buildings, Piazza del Popolo is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Marche region.

The History of Piazza del Popolo

The origins of Piazza del Popolo are somewhat enigmatic. Some historians believe it was the site of the Roman Forum due to its proximity to the intersection of the main axes of the Roman city. However, archaeological evidence suggests it may have been a commercial area, as indicated by the extensive opus spicatum pavement visible in the ground floor archaeological area of the Palazzo dei Capitani del Popolo.

During the medieval period, the square was smaller and bordered by house-towers with commercial spaces on the ground floors. The presence of the Palazzo dei Capitani and the Church of San Francesco gradually increased its importance, placing it in contrast to the nearby Piazza Arringo.

In the mid-14th century, the square began to expand northward, facilitated by the demolition of houses that occupied that side. This expansion continued into the following century, transforming the square from its original square shape to a rectangular one. By the late 15th century, the square was entirely free of medieval houses and was paved with regular travertine slabs.

The current architectural configuration of Piazza del Popolo was established in the early 16th century under the direction of Governor Raniero de' Ranieri, following orders from Pope Julius II. In 1509, porticoes with brick vaults and travertine columns were constructed on three sides of the square to improve the urban situation of many shops, warehouses, and irregular medieval houses that still faced the square.

After the colonnade was completed, private owners were allowed to build and elevate their properties according to specific rules: only one floor above the colonnade was permitted, maintaining uniform building heights, using the same building materials (travertine for windows and brick for vaults and houses), and constructing windows with a specific design featuring round tympana and palmette decorations. This design, attributed to Bernardino di Pietro da Carona, likely has Roman roots and is more probably ascribed to Alberto da Piacenza, a student of Bramante.

Architectural Highlights

Piazza del Popolo covers an area of approximately 2,500 square meters, with dimensions of about 29 by 87 meters. It is rectangular in shape and located near the intersection of Corso Giuseppe Mazzini and Via del Trivio, with the main facade of San Francesco on its northwestern corner.

The western side of the square is dominated by the imposing facade of the Palazzo dei Capitani del Popolo and the charming Caffè Meletti. The northern side is entirely enclosed by the graceful Gothic forms of the right side of the Church of San Francesco, which is adorned with the so-called Edicola di Lazzaro Morelli, actually created by Silvio Giosafatti, and the dynamic apse complex.

The rest of the perimeter is occupied by Renaissance palazzetti with porticoes and loggias, which close off the eastern side, the side opposite the church, and part of the western side adjacent to the church. The southern side of the palazzetti is taller than the others, as it was built with a loggia above the window order, remnants of which can be seen in a small column and the corresponding arch impost at the left end. The loggia, closed in the first half of the 19th century, was decorated in monochrome in 1904 by Pio Nardini with grotesque motifs and medallions, one of which bears the city's coat of arms.

The Renaissance arrangement of Piazza del Popolo exemplifies the theoretical principles of Filarete and Alberti, who, drawing on Vitruvian theories, envisioned rectangular squares with a 1:3 width-to-length ratio and surrounded by porticoes to enhance their commercial function. The square is entirely paved with polished travertine slabs, creating a bright and luminous appearance that takes on a striking mirror effect when it rains.

Cultural Significance

Piazza del Popolo is not just an architectural gem but also a vibrant cultural hub. It is the stage for the city's two most important and famous events: the Carnival and the Quintana, as well as major musical and theatrical performances. The square's significance is further highlighted by its frequent appearances in films and TV series shot in the city. Notably, it features prominently in the film Alfredo Alfredo (1972) by Pietro Germi and I delfini (1960) by Francesco Maselli.

The square also gained television fame in the 1990s when it hosted the Festivalbar several times, including the 1995 final when the Arena di Verona was unavailable. In 2001, it was the stage for Notti di duelli e di magia, an event broadcast worldwide on Rai 1, inspired by the Quintana and Cecco d'Ascoli, and featuring performances by Roberto Bolle, Anna Oxa, the Chieftains, and the Compagnia dei Folli.

Moreover, Piazza del Popolo has been the backdrop for numerous advertising campaigns, both in print and on television, including a 1999 Fiat Seicento commercial inspired by the Middle Ages, Telecom's Impresa Semplice, Vodafone in 2012, and Serie A TIM in 2015. For many years, a reproduction of the square appeared in the set design of the TV program Striscia la notizia, alongside other important Italian monuments.

In conclusion, Piazza del Popolo in Ascoli Piceno is more than just a square; it is a living testament to the city's rich history, architectural beauty, and cultural vibrancy. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply looking for a picturesque spot to enjoy a coffee, this Renaissance masterpiece is a must-see destination that will leave you enchanted.