Copley Square

Named for the colonial painter John Singleton Copley, this square in the Back Bay is framed by architectural landmarks including Trinity Church, the Boston Public Library and the reflective glass of a modern tower. Redesigned as a public plaza with fountains and lawns, it serves as the finish-line area of the city's famous marathon. Seasonal farmers' markets fill the paved terraces, while the surrounding buildings represent several eras of American design. The square blends Gilded Age grandeur with a lively gathering place.