Absolutely! The Trevi Fountain, a jewel of Baroque art, stands as one of Rome’s most beloved landmarks. Constructed in the 18th century, it depicts the taming of the waters, a theme embodied through its stunning sculptures and cascading waters. Known for its tradition of coin-throwing for luck, the fountain captivates with its intricate design and size, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the Eternal City. Its dramatic presence and the folklore surrounding it have cemented its place not just in Roman history, but in popular culture worldwide.
The Trevi Fountain, or ‘Fontana di Trevi’ in Italian, is steeped in history dating back to ancient Rome. Its origin traces to the Roman aqueduct of Aqua Virgo, built in 19 BC, which supplied water to Roman baths and fountains. The fountain as we know it today, however, was completed in 1762, a masterpiece of the Baroque era. Commissioned by Pope Clement XII, the project was initially started by architect Nicola Salvi and later completed by Pietro Bracci. The Trevi Fountain marks the terminal point of the Aqua Virgo and is a remarkable representation of Rome’s historical commitment to architectural beauty and the importance of water in the city’s history.
The Trevi Fountain is a marvel of Baroque art and architecture, showcasing a blend of natural and architectural elements. The central figure is Oceanus, god of all water, standing majestically on a shell-shaped chariot pulled by seahorses guided by Tritons. The fountain is built against the backdrop of Palazzo Poli, with Corinthian columns and triumphal arches adding to its grandeur. The use of travertine stone, sourced from Tivoli, and Carrara marble for the sculptures, enhances its magnificence. The dynamic arrangement of figures and the play of light and shadow create a dramatic effect, making the Trevi Fountain not just a water feature but a symbol of Baroque opulence.
The Trevi Fountain is deeply ingrained in Roman culture and history. Beyond its architectural brilliance, it has become a symbol of tradition and folklore in Rome. The most famous tradition is coin-throwing: it is believed that throwing a coin over your shoulder into the fountain ensures a return to Rome. This ritual, coupled with the fountain’s appearance in films like ‘La Dolce Vita,’ has embedded the Trevi in popular culture globally. Furthermore, the fountain is a testament to Rome’s historical relationship with water, from the ancient aqueducts to public fountains, symbolizing both the city’s past and its enduring legacy as a center of art, culture, and history.
Visiting the Trevi Fountain in Rome is accessible via various transportation methods, catering to the needs of travelers from around the world.
The Trevi Fountain is open every day and has the following opening time:
The monument is closed on 25 of December, 01st of January, 01st of May. It is open on 24th and 31st of December.
Visiting the Trevi Fountain can be a memorable experience with the right preparation. Here are some practical tips for visitors:
Best Times to Visit: Early morning or late evening are ideal to avoid the crowds. The fountain is less crowded around sunrise, offering a peaceful ambiance. Alternatively, visiting at night lets you see the fountain beautifully illuminated.
Photography Tips: Bring a good camera or smartphone for photos. Early morning light is perfect for photography. At night, a camera with good low-light performance is beneficial to capture the fountain’s stunning lighting.
Coin Tossing Ritual: Partake in the famous tradition of throwing a coin into the fountain. It’s said that one coin ensures a return to Rome, two coins can lead to a new romance, and three coins can lead to marriage.
Stay Hydrated and Protected: Carry a water bottle, especially in the summer months. Rome’s fountains have drinkable water. Also, consider sunscreen and a hat for sunny days.
Comfortable Footwear: Be prepared for some walking, as the closest public transport stops are a short distance away. Comfortable shoes are a must.
Beware of Pickpockets: The area can be crowded, making it a target for pickpockets. Keep your belongings secure and be mindful of your surroundings.
Respect the Space: Remember, it’s a historical monument. Don’t sit on the edges of the fountain or swim in it. It’s important to preserve and respect this piece of history.
Explore Nearby Attractions: Allocate time to explore surrounding areas like the Spanish Steps and Pantheon, which are within walking distance.
Local Cuisine: Try some local gelato or dine in nearby cafes to complete your Roman experience.
Guided Tours: Consider a guided tour for insightful historical and cultural context about the fountain and surrounding areas.
The Trevi Fountain is not only an architectural wonder but also a treasure trove of history with many fascinating and lesser-known facts.
Ancient Origins: The Trevi Fountain is connected to one of Rome’s oldest water sources, the Aqua Virgo aqueduct, which dates back to 19 BC. This aqueduct was constructed by Agrippa, a general and son-in-law of Emperor Augustus, to supply water to Roman baths.
Hidden Meanings in Sculptures: The statues in the fountain are rife with symbolism. Oceanus, the central figure, represents the sea, while the two Tritons guiding the seahorses symbolize the varying moods of the sea – one struggles to master a seahorse, depicting the unruly nature of the sea, while the other gently leads a calm sea creature.
A Papal Controversy: The fountain’s construction was embroiled in a controversy involving Pope Urban VIII. Legend has it that the Pope had to halt construction due to public outcry over the use of metal from the Pantheon’s portico for its cannons.
The Fountain of Love Myth: It’s widely believed that the tradition of throwing coins into the fountain was inspired by the 1954 movie, “Three Coins in the Fountain”. However, this practice predates the film, rooted in ancient customs of throwing coins in water to appease gods and ensure a safe return home.
A Secret Drinking Water Source: Unknown to many, the fountain has a small drinking water fountain on the left side, providing fresh, clean water from the ancient aqueduct. This is a nod to the fountain’s original purpose of providing water to Romans.
The Trevi Fountain and Fashion: In 2007, famed fashion house Fendi initiated a trend by hosting a fashion show on the waters of the Trevi Fountain, transforming it into a runway. This event led to other fashion brands using the fountain as a backdrop for their shows.
Restoration Tales: The fountain underwent a major restoration in 2015, funded by Fendi. This restoration involved meticulous cleaning and repair work, bringing back its original colors and repairing the stonework.
A Symbol in Literature and Film: Beyond its physical grandeur, the Trevi Fountain has been immortalized in numerous films and books, most famously in Fellini’s ‘La Dolce Vita’, where it is the setting for the iconic scene featuring Anita Ekberg and Marcello Mastroianni.