Are you ready to experience the thrill of a breath-taking view? The panorama to be enjoyed on the terraces of the Janiculum is spectacular! From here, it is possible to recognise the unmistakable dome of the Pantheon, the portentous white marble edifice of the Vittoriano, and much more besides. If then you arrive at the hill at exactly 12 o’clock, a surprise awaits you. Three soldiers, every day, load a canon and fire a sonorous shot which resounds around the whole city! The tradition of the canon dates back to Pope Pius IX who, to avoid confusion over the hour, instituted this service in 1846, and thanks to which all the clocks of the churches in Rome ring in unison.

Few people know that there is a unique place for looking at the cupola of Saint Peter’s in a completely new and magical way, and that it precisely in “Via Niccolò Piccolomini”. Passing down the road and observing the cupola, you will realise that as you approach the dome, it will seem ever further away. Going in reverse on the other hand, the cupola will seem to grow closer until it becomes enormous. This is due to an optical effect caused by the arrangement of buildings and a perspective which creates an evocative visual effect and a fascinating view of the cupola.
The Pope at the Window is only 1.2 k away from Via Piccolomini and, as it can easily be reached on foot, it could be an ideal place for ending a beautiful evening in the centre, or for a romantic encounter.