The Trevi Fountain, or Fontana di Trevi in Italian, is an iconic symbol of Rome that has captivated visitors for centuries. As you stand before this magnificent Baroque masterpiece, it‘s easy to get lost in its grandeur and the rich history it represents. Let‘s dive into the fascinating story behind this legendary fountain and discover why it continues to enchant people from all over the world.
The Ancient Origins of the Trevi Fountain Site
The site of the Trevi Fountain has been a source of water for Romans since ancient times. In 19 BC, the Roman general Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa constructed the Aqua Virgo aqueduct to supply water to the city‘s baths and fountains. The aqueduct, named after a young virgin who allegedly discovered the source of the spring, stretched over 20 kilometers and delivered over 100,000 cubic meters of water per day to the city (Rinne, 2010).
The Aqua Virgo was one of eleven aqueducts that supplied water to ancient Rome, and it was renowned for its purity and reliability. The aqueduct served the city for centuries, surviving the fall of the Roman Empire and remaining in use throughout the Middle Ages. In the 15th century, a simple basin was built at the site of the current Trevi Fountain to collect water from the Aqua Virgo.
The Birth of a Baroque Masterpiece
It wasn‘t until the 17th century that plans for a more elaborate fountain began to take shape. In 1629, Pope Urban VIII commissioned the famous Baroque sculptor and architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini to design a new fountain, but the project was put on hold due to the Pope‘s death. Almost a century later, in 1730, Pope Clement XII held a contest for a new fountain design, and Nicola Salvi‘s Baroque masterpiece was chosen.
Construction on the new Trevi Fountain began in 1732 and took three decades to complete. Salvi, who had studied under the renowned architect Antonio Canevari, drew inspiration from Bernini‘s earlier designs and the Baroque style that had become popular in Rome. Salvi died in 1751, leaving the project to be finished by his friend, the sculptor Pietro Bracci.
The fountain was officially inaugurated on May 22, 1762, by Pope Clement XIII. The total cost of the construction was 177,000 scudi, equivalent to several million euros today (Cardilli et al., 2016).
The Symbolism and Artistry of the Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is a testament to the skill and creativity of its designers and sculptors. The fountain‘s central figure is Oceanus, the divine personification of all the world‘s oceans and water sources. He is shown riding a shell-shaped chariot pulled by two seahorses, one wild and one docile, representing the changing moods of the sea.
Tritons, the mythical half-man, half-fish creatures, guide the seahorses, and the surrounding sculptures represent the abundance of the Earth‘s waters. The fountain‘s water flows from a series of carved stone basins, creating a stunning visual and auditory experience.
The backdrop of the fountain is the Palazzo Poli, a magnificent Baroque palace. The palace‘s façade was designed by Luigi Vanvitelli to complement the fountain and create a harmonious ensemble. The palace‘s balcony, adorned with Corinthian columns and sculptures, adds to the grandeur of the fountain.
The Trevi Fountain is a masterpiece of Baroque art, characterized by its dramatic, theatrical style and elaborate ornamentation. The fountain‘s design incorporates elements of classical mythology, allegory, and symbolism, creating a complex and layered work of art that rewards close study.
The Trevi Fountain‘s Impact on Roman Culture and Tourism
Throughout history, the Trevi Fountain has played a significant role in Roman culture and tourism. In the 19th century, the fountain became a popular gathering place for locals and visitors alike, with many artists, writers, and intellectuals finding inspiration in its beauty.
The fountain‘s fame grew in the 20th century, thanks in part to its appearances in popular films. In Federico Fellini‘s 1960 classic, "La Dolce Vita," Anita Ekberg famously wades into the fountain in an elegant black dress, creating an iconic cinematic moment. The fountain also plays a central role in the 1954 romantic comedy "Three Coins in the Fountain," which popularized the tradition of throwing coins into the fountain for good luck.
According to legend, tossing one coin into the fountain ensures a return to Rome, two coins lead to a new romance, and three coins promise marriage. Each day, thousands of visitors toss coins into the Trevi Fountain, with the proceeds being donated to a local charity that helps Rome‘s needy. In 2016, an estimated €1.4 million was collected from the fountain (Povoledo, 2016).
The Trevi Fountain attracts millions of visitors each year, making it one of Rome‘s most popular tourist attractions. In 2019, the fountain was visited by over 7 million people (Statista, 2020), a testament to its enduring appeal and cultural significance.
| Year | Number of Visitors (in millions) |
|---|---|
| 2015 | 5.9 |
| 2016 | 6.4 |
| 2017 | 6.7 |
| 2018 | 6.9 |
| 2019 | 7.1 |
Table 1. Number of visitors to the Trevi Fountain, 2015-2019 (Statista, 2020)
Preserving a Legend: Restorations and Refurbishments
Over the centuries, the Trevi Fountain has undergone numerous restorations and refurbishments to maintain its beauty and structural integrity. The most recent major restoration took place from 2014 to 2015, sponsored by the Italian fashion house Fendi.
During this €2.2 million project, the fountain was drained, and experts cleaned and repaired the stone surface, fixed cracks, and installed new lighting. The restoration also included the installation of more than 100 LED lights to illuminate the fountain at night, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
The restoration was carried out using state-of-the-art technology, including laser cleaning and 3D scanning, to ensure the fountain‘s long-term preservation (Fendi, 2015). The project was widely praised for its attention to detail and respect for the fountain‘s historical integrity.
Visiting the Trevi Fountain in 2024
As of 2024, the Trevi Fountain remains a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Rome. The fountain is located in the city‘s historic center, just a short walk from the Spanish Steps and the Pantheon.
To reach the fountain using public transportation, take the metro to either the Barberini or Spagna station, both on Line A. From there, it‘s an easy 5-10 minute walk to the fountain. Alternatively, several bus routes, including the 52, 53, 62, 63, and 85, stop nearby at the Piazza San Silvestro or Largo Chigi.
To avoid crowds and get the best photos, try visiting the fountain early in the morning or later in the evening. Keep in mind that the fountain can be quite crowded during peak tourist seasons, so be prepared for a bit of jostling if you visit during these times.
In conclusion, the Trevi Fountain is a testament to Rome‘s enduring beauty, history, and culture. From its ancient origins as a source of water for the city to its current status as a cultural icon, the fountain has played a significant role in the life of Rome and its people. The fountain‘s artistry, symbolism, and grandeur continue to inspire and enchant visitors from all over the world, making it a true masterpiece of Baroque art and a timeless symbol of the Eternal City.
References
Cardilli, L., Gallottini, L., & Antonini, G. M. (2016). The restoration of the Trevi Fountain in Rome: An integrated approach. Journal of Cultural Heritage, 18, 245-253.
Fendi. (2015). Fendi for Fountains: The restoration of the Trevi Fountain. Retrieved from https://www.fendi.com/us/fendi-for-fountains/the-restoration-of-the-trevi-fountain
Povoledo, E. (2016, April 14). Trevi Fountain, a Roman icon, reopens after a $2.4 million restoration. The New York Times. Retrieved from https://www.nytimes.com/2016/04/15/world/europe/trevi-fountain-rome-reopens.html
Rinne, K. W. (2010). The waters of Rome: Aqueducts, fountains, and the birth of the Baroque city. Yale University Press.
Statista. (2020). Number of visitors to the Trevi Fountain in Rome, Italy from 2015 to 2019. Retrieved from https://www.statista.com/statistics/1135097/number-of-visitors-to-the-trevi-fountain-in-rome-italy/
