Trevi Fountain

Rome, Italy

The Trevi Fountain is the largest Baroque fountain in Rome and one of the most famous fountains in the world. The fountain has appeared in several notable films, including Federico Fellini's La Dolce Vita.

The fountain at the junction of three roads marks the terminal point of the 'modern' Acqua Vergine, the revived Aqua Virgo, one of the aqueducts that supplied water to ancient Rome. In 19 BC, supposedly with the help of a virgin, Roman technicians located a source of pure water some 13 km from the city (This scene is presented on the present fountain's façade). However, the eventual indirect route of the aqueduct made its length some 22 km. This Aqua Virgo led the water into the Baths of Agrippa. It served Rome for more than 400 years.

In 1629 Pope Urban VIII, finding the earlier fountain insufficiently dramatic, asked Gian Lorenzo Bernini to sketch possible renovations, but the project was abandoned when the pope died. Though Bernini's project was never constructed, there are many Bernini touches in the fountain as it exists today.

Competitions had become the rage during the Baroque era to design buildings, fountains and even the Spanish Steps. In 1730 Pope Clement XII organized a contest in which Nicola Salvi initially lost to Alessandro Galilei, but due to the outcry in Rome over the fact that a Florentine won, Salvi was awarded the commission anyway. Work began in 1732 and the fountain was completed in 1762, long after Salvi's death, when Pietro Bracci's Oceanus (god of all water) was set in the central niche.

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Address

Piazza di Trevi 98, Rome, Italy
See all sites in Rome

Details

Founded: 1732-1762
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More Information

en.wikipedia.org
www.trevifountain.net
www.aviewoncities.com

Rating

4.7/5 (based on Google user reviews)

Interesting Sites Nearby


Colosseum (1,4 km)
Sistine Chapel (2,4 km)
Arch of Constantine (1,4 km)
St. Peter's Basilica (2,5 km)
Basilica of Santa Maria in Ara Coeli (0,8 km)
Altare della Patria (0,7 km)
St. Peter's Square (2,2 km)
Pantheon (0,6 km)
Vatican Historical Museum (2,5 km)


Villa d'Este (26,8 km)

User Reviews

Alessandra Porciani (19 months ago)
This is one of the most beautiful fountains I have ever seen. The area is extremely busy with pedestrian traffic so squeeze your way through the crowd and get your photos, then take time to sit and enjoy the architecture. The area is also filled with shops and restaurants, it is an excellent place to walk around and spend some time soaking in the beautiful area.
Paul Hemmelhemstead (19 months ago)
Definitely worth a visit when you're in Rome. It looks magical during the day but it looked a lot better at night time. Whatever time you go, be aware that it will be chock full of people. I'm not a big fan of crowds but it is worth waiting to approach the fountain. Good luck getting a photo without other people in it though.
David Smith (19 months ago)
The Trevi Fountain was an incredible stop and a must see while in Rome. I would recommend seeing the fountain St night but I would assume it's a magical experience at any time. There were large crowds there but everyone was very polite and as long as you are patient you will be able to approach the fountain. There were law enforcement officers on scene to ensure security at all times.
Squidgy H (19 months ago)
Worth a visit if you're in Rome, a little crowded if I'm honest but there are some lovely restaurants and shops around. Would definitely recommend visiting at night too, adds a little more ambience! Around the corner there's a magnum ice cream bar where you can also make your own magnum/design with names etc.
Arnav Singh (20 months ago)
Beautiful place during the day and night. During my visit, mid February, it was very crowded. It's a belief of throwing a coin for good luck and as a promise to return to Rome. There are lots of place to buy ice-cream, which can add to the experience as you contemplate the view. If you are looking to take pictures, you will have a chance but you have to be quick.
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