The Trevi fountain is an outstanding late baroque masterpiece, located in Rome’s Trevi district, abutting the Palazzo Poli. The famous Roman fountain gained popularity among tourists through its remarkable architecture and the coin throwing legend. And if you want to make the most out of your Italy trip, then the famous Roman fountain is a must to visit, as it will bring you an unforgettable experience.
Trevi Fountain Legend
The main entertaining activity is throwing a coin into the fountain. But what is the story behind this legend? Everything has started from the movie. You may see Trevi fountain in such movies as “Roman Holiday,” “Three Coins in the Fountain,” and “The Lizzy McGuire Movie.” And the legend was created after the second movie was released, due to which if you throw one coin, you will return to Rome; two coins – you will fall in love; three coins – you will marry. And to achieve the desired effect, you should throw the coin with your right hand over your left shoulder.
Every day thousands of people come to the fountain to make a wish. And as it was estimated, 3.000 euros are thrown into the fountain daily. In a year it is approximately 1.4 million euros. And since 2007 this money has been used to support good causes.
Trevi Fountain Architecture
The Trevi fountain is considered to be one of the best-looking fountains in the world. The famous Roman fountain was constructed in 1762 by Italian architect Nicola Salvi and completed by Giuseppe Pannini.
Trevi fountain composition is entirely devoted to the sea. When you give a closer look at the fountain in the center, you will see the mythical God of the Ocean – Oceanus. Left of the arch, you can see the statue of Abundance that holding a horn of plenty and a toppled vase that lies at her feet. And left of the arch stands the statue of Health, who is crowned with a wreath of laurel and holds a cup from which a snake drinks. Finally, at the top of the fountain, you will see four statues representing an abundance of fruits, fertility of crops, products of autumn, and joy of prairie and gardens. As you see, every detail of the Trevi fountain means and represents some aspects of Roman life.
Trevi Fountain History and Facts
As you already know, the famous Roman fountain has symbolic connections with mythology because the fountain has a deep history. Although it took over 100 years to build the fountain that you can see today, the history goes back more than 2.000 years.
The aqueduct was called Aqua Virgo, meaning “Virgin Water.” A legend behind this says it was named for a young maiden who showed Roman soldiers where the spring was. In ancient times this aqueduct was one of 11 main Roman aqueducts, making it the primary water source. The Aqua Virgo is the only aqueduct that never stopped working and still supplying water to Rome.
Trevi Fountain Etiquette
If you decide to visit the fountain, you should follow some basic rules and observe etiquette. For example, you are not allowed to bathe in the fountain and eat and drink on the steps leading down the water. Otherwise, the fine for that is up to 500 euro.
Best Time to Visit Trevi Fountain
Being one of the most famous landmarks of Italy, it is extremely hard to avoid crowds near the Trevi fountain. But still, if you visit the fountain right after the sunrise, you will find the place less crowded. And if you want to get the most exciting experience, you should see the fountain after the sun goes down the horizon and the Trevi fountain gets lit up. The best time for that is between 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.
All in all, when traveling to Rome, the Trevi fountain is a must to visit. Being the largest fountain in Rome, it will surely surprise you with its fascinating late baroque architecture and the atmosphere it brings. So be sure to add the Trevi fountain to your Italy itinerary, and don’t forget to make a wish.