Trevi Fountain, Rome, Italy

Trevi Fountain is an iconic landmark in Rome and one of the most famous fountains in the world. It is a beautiful, monumental fountain located in the heart of the city and is a must-see for tourists who visit Rome. The Trevi Fountain is the largest baroque fountain in Rome, standing at 26.3 meters high (86.3 feet) and 49.15 meters wide (161 feet).

History of Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain has a long and fascinating history that dates back centuries. The fountain was originally commissioned by Pope Clement XII in 1730 and was designed by architect Nicola Salvi. Salvi wanted to create a masterpiece that would reflect the grandeur of the city and its history, and he designed the fountain to be the centerpiece of a new aqueduct. The Trevi Fountain was built in a traditional Roman style, with its focal point being a large sculpture of Oceanus, the god of the sea, surrounded by figures of sea nymphs and Tritons. In addition, the fountain is decorated with seashells, plants, and other aquatic motifs. The fountain also features statues of Abundance, Health and Salubrity, which represent the three virtues of Rome.

Scuptures of Trevi Fountain, Rome, ItalyConstruction of the fountain

The Trevi Fountain is made of travertine stone, a type of limestone that is quarried in the area surrounding Rome. Travertine is the same stone that was used to build the Colosseum and other famous Roman structures. The stone is a light shade of golden yellow, with a ripple pattern that adds to its beauty and charm.

The Trevi Fountain is made up of three distinct parts. The first is the lower basin, which is made of travertine and is shaped like a giant shell. The second part is the upper basin, which is made of marble and has two tiers. The final part is the central jet, which is also made of marble and features a sculpture of the god Oceanus.

The water that flows through the fountain is sourced from the Aqua Virgo aqueduct, built in 19 BC by the Roman emperor Augustus. The aqueduct runs 20 kilometers (13 miles) and supplies the fountain with its water. The fountain is open daily, and the water is typically turned on from 8am to 8pm.

Tourist surrounding Trevi Fountain, Rome, Italy

Tourist around Trevi Fountain

Tourism

Over the centuries, the Trevi Fountain has become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. It is a place of great beauty and is often used as a backdrop for romantic scenes in movies and television shows. Every day, visitors to the fountain can be seen throwing coins into the fountain in hopes of good luck and a return to Rome. According to legend, throwing one coin into the fountain will ensure a return to Rome, while throwing two coins will ensure a new romance. Three coins thrown into the fountain will ensure marriage.

The Trevi Fountain is also a popular spot for tourists to take photographs. Its grandeur and beauty make it an ideal place to capture the perfect picture. The fountain is illuminated at night and is a spectacular sight to behold.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Trevi Fountain is early in the morning, before 9am. This is when the crowds are smaller and the light is best for taking photos. In order to protect the sculpture, the area around the fountain is heavily monitored and visitors are not allowed to climb into the fountain, sit or stand on the edge of the fountain, or swim in the fountain.

What happens to all those coins

Each day, the Trevi Fountain collects an estimated 3,000 euros in coins. The coins that are thrown into the fountain are collected every night by a special team of cleaners and sent to Caritas, a Catholic charity organization. The money collected is used to help fund soup kitchens, homeless shelters, and other projects that benefit Rome’s most vulnerable citizens. So go ahead and throw in those coins. They go to a worthy cause and may bring you good fortune.

Movies

Because of its beauty and grandeur, the fountain has been featured in many movies, including:

1. Three Coins in the Fountain (1954)
2. Roman Holiday (1953)
3. La Dolce Vita (1960)
4. The Lizzie McGuire Movie (2003)
5. To Rome With Love (2012)
6. Angels & Demons (2009)
7. The Borrowers (1997)
8. The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999)
9. Eat Pray Love (2010)
10. The Tourist (2010)

The Trevi Fountain has been a part of Rome for centuries and continues to be a symbol of the city. It is a place of beauty and romance and is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit it. Whether you are a local or a tourist, the Trevi Fountain is a must-see destination in Rome.

Our Travel Magazine

Travel Magazine
Abercrombie Kent
Explora

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