The Piazza of the Knights of Malta

Map

Bas-relief, Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta

---

The picturesque Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta (Piazza of the Knights of Malta), on the Aventine Hill, was designed by the Venetian print-maker Giambattista Piranesi (1720-78), who is much better known for his etchings of Rome. 

The walls on two sides of the piazza sport small obelisks and a set of curious bas-reliefs. 

Piranesi also designed the entrance to the gardens of the Priorato di Malta, on the west side of the piazza. The door boasts the most famous keyhole in Rome. The gardens are part of the Villa Magistrale, the residence of the head of the Knights of Malta. 

• Related post: church of Santa Maria in Priorato.