The Trevi Fountain is one of Rome’s most famous and spectacular fountains, and one of the city’s most visited tourist attractions. Located in the heart of Rome’s historic center, the fountain is a magnificent Baroque artwork, rich in symbolism and history. With its imposing statues, fountains, and water features, the Trevi Fountain is a magical and enchanting place that captivates visitors of all ages.

History and Meaning

The Trevi Fountain was built in the 18th century by order of Pope Clement XII, and was designed by architect Nicola Salvi. Its construction took about 30 years and was completed in 1762 under the reign of Pope Clement XIII. The fountain is situated at the end of an ancient Roman aqueduct that supplied drinking water to the city of Rome for centuries. The name “Trevi” comes from the Latin term “trivium,” meaning “three roads,” and refers to the point where three streets meet near the fountain.

The Trevi Fountain is famous for its beauty, grandeur, rich symbolism, and history. The fountain has inspired artists, poets, and writers of all times, who have celebrated its beauty and charm in their works and poems. Today, the Trevi Fountain is one of Rome’s most photographed and visited landmarks and remains a symbol of the city and its history.

Architecture and Decorations

The Trevi Fountain is one of Rome’s largest and most spectacular Baroque fountains, and one of the most famous in the world. Its structure is characterized by a series of statues and reliefs depicting myths and legends of ancient Rome, including the myth of Oceanus, the god of the sea, and the myth of Triton, the son of Poseidon. In the center of the fountain is a large statue of Oceanus, surrounded by horses and sea creatures, while behind him rises a series of rocks and grottoes decorated with shells, corals, and other marine life.

The decorations of the Trevi Fountain are rich in symbolism and meaning, and represent the importance of water in the life of the city of Rome. The statues and reliefs depict scenes of marine life and human activities related to water, and celebrate the power and beauty of the sea and rivers. The fountain is also adorned with a series of fountains and water features, which create a magical and enchanting effect and transport visitors to a world of dreams and fantasy.

Traditions and Legends

The Trevi Fountain is also famous for its traditions and legends, which attract thousands of visitors every day. The most famous tradition is that of throwing a coin into the fountain to ensure a return to Rome. According to legend, anyone who throws a coin into the fountain with their back to it is destined to return to Rome, while those who throw it with their right hand over their left shoulder are destined to fall in love with a Roman, and those who throw it with their left hand over their right shoulder are destined to marry a Roman.

Another famous tradition is to throw a second coin into the fountain to ensure luck and success in life. This tradition originated in the 1950s when the film “Roman Holiday” starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck made the Trevi Fountain famous worldwide. Since then, thousands of visitors have thrown coins into the fountain every day, contributing to collecting thousands of euros that are then donated to charities.

Visiting the Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is one of Rome’s most visited tourist attractions and can be easily reached on foot from many of the city’s main attractions. It is open daily and is illuminated at night to allow visitors to admire it even after sunset. With its charm and beauty, the Trevi Fountain is a must-visit destination for visitors of all ages and interests, offering an unforgettable experience that will stay in the memory of all who visit.