The Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi) is one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome, Italy, known for its breathtaking Baroque design and rich historical significance. Nestled in the heart of the city, this stunning fountain has enchanted visitors for centuries with its beauty, symbolism, and connection to Roman history. Whether it’s the grandeur of its design or the charm of its legends, the Trevi Fountain remains a must-see for anyone visiting the Eternal City.
The Trevi Fountain’s history dates back to ancient Rome, when the site served as the terminal point for the Aqua Virgo, a 21-kilometer-long aqueduct that supplied water to much of the city. Built in 19 BCE, the aqueduct was a crucial part of Roman infrastructure, bringing fresh water from the countryside to Rome’s public baths and fountains.
However, the fountain as it stands today was completed much later. In the 17th century, Pope Urban VIII commissioned famed Baroque architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini to design a new fountain to replace the existing, modest structure. Though Bernini’s plans were never fully realized due to financial difficulties, his influence is evident in the final design.
The fountain we see today was constructed between 1732 and 1762, under the direction of architect Nicola Salvi. After Salvi’s death, Giuseppe Pannini completed the work, and the Trevi Fountain was finally inaugurated in 1762. Its name derives from its location at the intersection of three streets (tre vie), marking it as a focal point in the city.
The Trevi Fountain is a masterpiece of Baroque art, embodying the theatricality, movement, and grandeur characteristic of the style. Standing 26.3 meters high and 49.15 meters wide, it is the largest fountain in Rome and one of the most elaborately decorated.
The central figure of the fountain is Oceanus, the personification of the sea, standing majestically in a shell-shaped chariot pulled by two sea horses, or “hippocamps.” Each of the sea horses represents a different aspect of the ocean: one is calm and obedient, while the other is wild and untamed, symbolizing the dual nature of the sea. Oceanus is flanked by two Tritons, who guide the horses.
Above Oceanus, two figures represent Abundance and Salubrity. Abundance holds a cornucopia, signifying the plentiful water supply, while Salubrity holds a cup from which a snake drinks, representing the health and life-giving properties of water.
The backdrop of the fountain is the façade of Palazzo Poli, a grand building that serves as the perfect canvas for the fountain’s elaborate sculptures. The façade is adorned with Corinthian columns, niches, and statues, all of which add to the sense of movement and drama.
Water flows from the statues into a large basin at the base of the fountain, representing the taming of natural forces. The cascading water is an integral part of the design, giving the entire structure a sense of life and dynamism. The contrast between the solid marble figures and the flowing water is a testament to the skill of the sculptors who brought this masterpiece to life.
The Trevi Fountain is not just an architectural marvel; it’s also steeped in legend. The most famous tradition associated with the fountain is the coin-throwing ritual. According to legend, if a visitor throws a coin into the fountain over their left shoulder using their right hand, they are guaranteed to return to Rome. This tradition has become so popular that an estimated 3,000 euros are thrown into the fountain every day.
Another legend suggests that two coins will lead to a new romance, while three coins will result in marriage or divorce, depending on the person’s current relationship status. While the accuracy of these claims is debatable, the ritual has become an essential part of any visit to the Trevi Fountain.
The coins collected from the fountain are regularly cleaned out and donated to charity, providing assistance to Rome’s less fortunate. This charitable aspect adds an extra layer of significance to the fountain, turning a simple tourist activity into a way of giving back to the community.
The Trevi Fountain has been immortalized in countless films, becoming a symbol of romance, adventure, and the magic of Rome. One of the most famous scenes takes place in Federico Fellini’s 1960 classic, La Dolce Vita, where actress Anita Ekberg wades through the fountain’s waters in a moment of cinematic history. This iconic scene has since inspired many visitors to relive the magic of that moment, although bathing in the fountain is now strictly forbidden.
Other notable appearances of the fountain include films such as Roman Holiday and The Lizzie McGuire Movie, where it continues to serve as a backdrop for stories of love and adventure.
Like many of Rome’s ancient monuments, the Trevi Fountain has required significant restoration efforts over the years to preserve its beauty. The fountain’s location in a busy part of the city means it is constantly exposed to pollution, weathering, and the effects of millions of tourists.
In 2014, the Italian fashion house Fendi funded a major restoration project, which involved cleaning and repairing the fountain’s sculptures and installing new pumps and LED lighting. This two-year project ensured that the Trevi Fountain could continue to shine for future generations of visitors.
The Trevi Fountain is located in Rome’s Trevi district, a short walk from other famous landmarks like the Spanish Steps and the Pantheon. The fountain is always accessible to visitors, and its beauty can be appreciated both during the day and at night, when it is illuminated and takes on a magical glow.
Visitors often find that the best time to visit is early in the morning or late at night when the crowds are thinner, allowing for a more peaceful experience. No trip to Rome is complete without a visit to the Trevi Fountain, where history, art, and legend converge in a spectacular display of Baroque creativity.
The Trevi Fountain is much more than just a fountain; it is a symbol of Rome’s rich history, architectural brilliance, and enduring allure. Its Baroque grandeur, coupled with its deep connection to Roman mythology and traditions, make it one of the most visited and beloved landmarks in the world. Whether you’re throwing a coin into its waters or simply marveling at its beauty, the Trevi Fountain offers an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Rome itself.
