Steeped in history and sights to match, town squares — or in many cases piazzas — incorporate the soul of their specific cities along their narrow alleyways.  Not only have they become a one-stop-shop for capturing the true elements of their destinations, but keep travelers coming back time and time again with their impressive facades and cultural attractions.  The next time you’re in any of the following cities, take a pleasant stroll to their town squares to see their charm unfold like the pages of your favorite fairytale.

Rome, Italy: Piazza di Spagna

Descending the world-famous Spanish Steps sits a colorful masterpiece of Rome, beautifully fashioned with antique structures, color-coated flowers and cobbled streets.  This picturesque square is known as Piazza di Spagna, which buzzes with Italian fare and smothered with an inescapable eclectic atmosphere. 

The square offers such an exquisite taste of history every intricate design is as iconic as Piazza di Spagna itself- especially the Barcaccia Fountain, a centerpiece so immaculately constructed there’s rarely a moment someone isn’t glaring at its architectural beauty.  At the top of the old Spanish Steps the Trinta dei Monti glaringly hovers over the square, creating a stunning backdrop in true Italian style.  The Piazza di Spagna is undeniably one of Rome’s best features- blessed with the fragrance from the past, yet glittering in a unique style that age like a fine glass of wine.

Decatur, GA: Decatur Square

There’s no doubt that the Decatur Square is the heartbeat of the city of Decatur, and to all those who have graced the vibrant square with their presence that comes as no surprise.  Around every corner is bedecked with historic buildings and statues that give the old center its mystic quality. 

Its cosmopolitan atmosphere is drenched with aromas of southern hospitality pouring out of Decatur Square’s various restaurants.  When visitors aren’t filling their appetites on culinary masterpieces, they are busily sauntering through its stores or enjoying the cool natural breezes of the Georgian air.  Even at night quirky lamppost illuminate the Decatur Square, allowing its exciting atmosphere to extend long after the sun has sunken behind its buildings.

Prague, Czech Republic: Old Town Square

The Old Town Square in Prague is no ordinary walk in the park.  It is an unforgettable trip to the past that is mirrored through its ancient buildings of baroque and gothic décor that line its cemented walkways.  The sounds of the square are comprised of the hustle and bustle of locals intertwined with tourists expressing their amazement over its bold features. 

Centuries ago the Old Town Square made its first impression as a market place before its gorgeous buildings came into play.  Now the square has become one of Prague’s most prized possessions, dominated by the Old Town Tower, which offers panoramic views of the square.  Whether you prefer to admire its historic façade by sitting with a cup of coffee in hand or with a leisurely stroll, no place emulates the past of the city like the Old Town Square.

Nice, France: Place Garibaldi

You’re not in Italy although the dazzling water fountain adorned with an Italian hero whose name it proudly flaunts in the heart of the Place Garibaldi in France tells a different story. 

There’s never a dull moment in this French square which was built during the 18^th century.  In fact, the Place Garibaldi is an idyllic location to eat, drink and be merry like a local- not to forget shop since it is bedecked with colorful stalls filled with trinkets during the weekend.  But even on an average day its buzzing sights gravitate people from near and far who have instantly become smitten by Place Garibaldi’s architectonic gems, gourmet cuisine and sultry atmosphere.

Skopje, Macedonia: Macedonia Square

The Macedonia Square may be the country’s biggest piazza, and it certainly makes a bold statement from the moment you step onto its premises.  That’s because the dominating Alexander the Great Fountain is a dynamic character alone, as it majestically casts a dark shadow over the square like a black cloud. 

But when visitors aren’t capturing photos of the statue’s colossal facade they are admiring its open spaces perfect for exploring the town’s legendary history.  With a new facelift in store for the Macedonia Square, it might be one the best locations to soak up the country’s riveting sites.