Name: Trevi Fountain
Address: Piazza di Trevi, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
Telephone: 06 0608
Rating: 4.8

Aqueduct-fed rococo fountain, designed by Nicola Salvi & completed in 1762, with sculpted figures.

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The Trevi Fountain, a Baroque masterpiece in Rome's Trevi district, stands as a testament to the city's enduring grandeur. Designed by Nicola Salvi and completed in 1762, this iconic fountain marks the end of the Aqua Virgo aqueduct, built by Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa in 19 BC.

At the heart of the fountain, Oceanus, the god of the sea, emerges from a shell-shaped chariot drawn by winged horses and guided by tritons. Flanking him are allegorical statues representing Healthiness and Abundance. The fountain's facade, adorned with Corinthian columns and bas-reliefs, depicts scenes from the aqueduct's history.

Legend has it that tossing a coin over one's shoulder into the fountain ensures a return to Rome. This tradition has made the Trevi Fountain a popular tourist destination, with an estimated 3,000 euros thrown into its waters daily. The collected funds are donated to Caritas, a Catholic charity organization.

Beyond its beauty and symbolism, the Trevi Fountain holds a special place in Roman folklore. Its construction was marked by controversy, with Pope Urban VIII's plans to use marble from the Tomb of Cecilia Metella sparking public outrage. The fountain's completion under Pope Clement XII and Giuseppe Pannini stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Rome and its enduring love for art and architecture.

Introduction

The Trevi Fountain, a Baroque masterpiece in Rome, has undergone several restorations to maintain its grandeur. In 1988, it was cleaned to remove smog discoloration, and in 1998, its stonework was scrubbed, cracks repaired, and recirculating pumps installed. The most extensive restoration, sponsored by Fendi, took place from 2014 to 2015. This involved cleaning, repairing deteriorated areas, and installing over 100 LED lights to enhance nighttime illumination. The fountain's iconic facade, designed by Nicola Salvi, was meticulously restored, preserving its intricate carvings and sculptures. The fountain's recirculating system ensures the continuous flow of water, reducing the need for frequent draining and refilling, thus preserving its delicate surfaces. These restoration efforts have ensured that the Trevi Fountain remains a testament to the enduring artistry of the past and a cherished landmark for generations to come.

Restoration and Preservation

Bernini's influence on the Trevi Fountain is evident in its grandeur and theatrical design. While Bernini's initial plans for the fountain were not fully realized, his vision for a monumental and awe-inspiring spectacle is reflected in the fountain's final form. The fountain's central figure, Oceanus, is a powerful and dynamic representation of the sea god, echoing Bernini's mastery of capturing movement and emotion in sculpture. The surrounding figures and reliefs, depicting tritons, horses, and allegorical figures, further enhance the sense of drama and movement. Bernini's influence is also seen in the fountain's use of travertine stone, a material he frequently employed for its warm, earthy tones and ability to convey a sense of age and grandeur. The Trevi Fountain stands as a testament to Bernini's genius and his enduring impact on Roman Baroque architecture.

Bernini's Influence

The Trevi Fountain, a Baroque masterpiece in the heart of Rome, attracts millions of tourists annually, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Its fame stems from its captivating beauty, historical significance, and the legend associated with it. Visitors marvel at the fountain's intricate sculptures, including the majestic figure of Neptune, the god of the sea, presiding over a chariot pulled by two seahorses. The fountain's cascading waters create a mesmerizing symphony, adding to its allure.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Trevi Fountain holds a special place in popular culture. The tradition of tossing coins into the fountain for good luck and a guaranteed return to Rome has made it a beloved ritual among tourists. This practice has contributed to the fountain's immense popularity, with visitors eagerly lining up to participate in the tradition.

The Trevi Fountain's popularity has also been fueled by its cinematic appearances. It has graced the silver screen in numerous films, including "Roman Holiday" and "La Dolce Vita," further solidifying its status as an iconic symbol of Rome. These cinematic portrayals have captivated audiences worldwide, inspiring countless individuals to add the Trevi Fountain to their travel itineraries.

The fountain's enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless beauty and cultural significance. It remains a must-see destination for tourists seeking an unforgettable experience in the Eternal City.

Tourism and Popularity

The Trevi Fountain's majestic Oceanus statue, a central figure in Roman mythology, embodies the untamed power and tranquility of the sea. Standing tall atop a shell-shaped chariot drawn by two winged horses, Oceanus represents the ever-changing nature of the ocean, with one horse symbolizing calm waters and the other, rough seas. Flanking Oceanus are two tritons, mythical sea creatures, who guide the chariot, symbolizing the harmony between man and nature. The statue's commanding presence reflects the awe-inspiring force of the ocean, while its intricate details capture the fluidity and grace of water in motion. Through Oceanus, the fountain pays homage to the life-giving properties of water, a precious resource in ancient Rome.

Oceanus Statue Symbolism

The Trevi Fountain, a Baroque masterpiece in Rome, stands as a testament to the Aqua Virgo aqueduct, an ancient marvel that has supplied the city with pristine water for centuries. Built in 19 BC, the Aqua Virgo aqueduct channeled water from a spring 13 kilometers outside Rome, providing a vital resource for the city's baths and fountains.

The fountain's design incorporates elements that pay homage to the aqueduct. The central figure of Oceanus, the god of the sea, symbolizes the abundance of water brought by the Aqua Virgo. The four allegorical figures surrounding Oceanus represent the seasons and the different moods of the sea.

The fountain's facade features an inscription that reads "Aqua Virgo," a testament to the aqueduct's enduring legacy. The water that flows from the fountain's spouts still comes from the Aqua Virgo, a testament to the aqueduct's remarkable engineering and the enduring connection between the Trevi Fountain and its ancient water source.

Today, the Trevi Fountain remains a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, who marvel at its beauty and the story it tells of Rome's ancient water supply. The fountain's association with the Aqua Virgo aqueduct adds a layer of historical significance, making it a symbol not only of artistic achievement but also of the city's enduring connection to its past.

Aqua Virgo Aqueduct

The Trevi Fountain, a Baroque masterpiece in the heart of Rome, stands as an enduring symbol of the city's grandeur and allure. Its imposing facade, adorned with intricate sculptures and cascading waters, has captivated visitors for centuries. As a symbol of Rome, the fountain embodies the city's rich history, artistic heritage, and enduring spirit.

The fountain's central figure, Oceanus, represents the primordial force of water that sustains life and symbolizes Rome's maritime power. Flanked by allegorical figures of Health and Abundance, the fountain evokes the city's prosperity and well-being. The cascading waters, a constant reminder of the Aqua Virgo aqueduct that once supplied Rome, symbolize the city's enduring vitality.

The tradition of tossing coins into the fountain, a ritual believed to ensure a return to Rome, has further cemented its status as a symbol of the city's allure. The fountain's enduring popularity, immortalized in countless films and works of art, speaks to its enduring significance as a symbol of Rome's timeless beauty and enduring charm.

Trevi Fountain as a Symbol of Rome

The Trevi Fountain in Rome, Italy, is renowned for its captivating beauty and the enduring tradition of coin tossing. Legends whisper that tossing a coin over your left shoulder into the fountain's shimmering waters ensures a return to the Eternal City. This ritual has transformed the fountain into a symbol of hope and longing for travelers worldwide.

Each coin tossed carries a wish, a silent plea to the gods of fortune. Some whisper their desires for love, others for wealth or success. The fountain has become a repository of dreams, its waters imbued with the collective aspirations of countless souls.

The tradition is believed to have originated from the 1954 film "Three Coins in the Fountain," where a character's wish to return to Rome after tossing three coins came true. Since then, the practice has become an integral part of the fountain's allure, with an estimated 3,000 euros tossed in daily.

The coins collected from the fountain are not merely discarded but serve a noble purpose. They are donated to Caritas, a Catholic charity that uses the funds to support food banks, soup kitchens, and welfare projects. Thus, each coin tossed not only carries a wish but also contributes to the well-being of Rome's less fortunate.

As you stand before the majestic Trevi Fountain, take a moment to participate in this cherished tradition. Close your eyes, make a wish, and toss a coin over your shoulder. Let the gentle splash of water carry your hopes and dreams, and believe in the magic that has drawn people to this iconic landmark for centuries.

Coin-Tossing Tradition

Legends and folklore have woven a rich tapestry around the Trevi Fountain, enchanting visitors with tales that have been passed down through generations. One captivating legend claims that the fountain was built on the site where a young maiden named Trivia revealed the location of a hidden spring to thirsty Roman soldiers. In gratitude, the soldiers named the fountain after her, and it became known as the "Trevi Fountain" due to its location at the intersection of three roads.

Another legend associated with the Trevi Fountain is the belief that tossing a coin over your left shoulder into the fountain's waters ensures a return visit to Rome. This tradition is said to have originated from the 1954 film "Three Coins in the Fountain," where it was depicted as a way to find love or good fortune. Today, visitors from around the world flock to the fountain, eager to participate in this beloved ritual and make a wish upon its sparkling waters.

The Trevi Fountain has also been featured prominently in literature and cinema, adding to its allure and mystique. In Federico Fellini's iconic film "La Dolce Vita," the fountain serves as a backdrop for a romantic encounter between Marcello Mastroianni and Anita Ekberg, further cementing its status as a symbol of love and romance.

Beyond these enchanting legends, the Trevi Fountain holds a special place in Roman folklore as a symbol of abundance and prosperity. Its cascading waters are believed to represent the flow of wealth and good fortune, making it a popular destination for those seeking financial blessings. Locals and tourists alike often visit the fountain to make offerings or simply bask in its beauty, hoping to absorb some of its legendary power.

Legends and Folklore

The Trevi Fountain, a Baroque masterpiece in Rome, has profoundly influenced culture and art for centuries. Its captivating design, adorned with intricate sculptures and cascading waters, has served as a muse for countless artists, writers, and filmmakers. The fountain's central figure, Oceanus, represents the sea's power and abundance, while the surrounding allegorical figures symbolize health and prosperity. This symbolism has resonated with audiences, making the Trevi Fountain a timeless icon of artistic expression.

The fountain's fame has been amplified by its prominent role in cinema. Films like "Three Coins in the Fountain" and "La Dolce Vita" have immortalized the tradition of tossing coins into the water, a ritual believed to ensure a return to Rome. This cinematic legacy has cemented the Trevi Fountain's status as a symbol of romance and wanderlust.

Beyond its visual impact, the Trevi Fountain has also influenced literature. Its grandeur and beauty have inspired poets and novelists to capture its essence in words. The fountain's association with love and longing has made it a recurring theme in romantic tales, further solidifying its place in the cultural imagination.

The Trevi Fountain's enduring influence on culture and art is a testament to its timeless appeal. Its captivating design, rich symbolism, and cinematic presence have made it an enduring source of inspiration for generations of artists and storytellers.

Influence on Culture and Art

The Trevi Fountain, a masterpiece of Roman Baroque architecture, stands as a testament to the grandeur and opulence of the era. Designed by Nicola Salvi and completed in 1762, this iconic fountain embodies the essence of Baroque aesthetics with its dramatic scale, intricate ornamentation, and dynamic composition.

The fountain's facade is a symphony of curves and counter-curves, creating a sense of movement and energy. The central niche houses a majestic figure of Neptune, the god of the sea, flanked by allegorical figures representing Abundance and Health. The cascading waters, pouring from the mouths of tritons and shells, create a mesmerizing spectacle that draws the viewer into the scene.

Salvi's ingenious use of perspective enhances the fountain's grandeur. The receding planes and diminishing scale of the sculptures create an illusion of depth, making the fountain appear larger than it actually is. The play of light and shadow further accentuates the fountain's three-dimensionality, giving it a sense of theatricality.

The Trevi Fountain is not merely an architectural marvel but also a symbol of Roman civic pride. Its construction marked the completion of the Acqua Vergine aqueduct, which had supplied water to the city since ancient times. The fountain's abundant flow of water represented the city's prosperity and abundance.

Today, the Trevi Fountain remains a beloved landmark, attracting millions of visitors each year. Its Baroque splendor continues to inspire awe and admiration, making it a must-see destination for anyone interested in the history and beauty of Roman architecture.

Roman Baroque Architecture

The Trevi Fountain, a magnificent spectacle in the heart of Rome, captivates visitors with its grandeur and allure. Its cascading waters, intricate sculptures, and vibrant piazza create an unforgettable sensory experience. As a spectacle, the fountain embodies the Baroque era's extravagance and theatricality. Its colossal scale and elaborate ornamentation evoke a sense of awe and wonder. The fountain's central figure, Oceanus, emerges from a shell-shaped chariot drawn by winged horses, symbolizing the untamed power of the sea. Flanking him are tritons, mythical sea creatures, who add to the fountain's dynamic composition.

The Trevi Fountain's spectacle extends beyond its physical presence. It has become an iconic symbol of Rome, featured in countless films and works of art. Its fame has transformed it into a stage for performances, protests, and celebrations. The fountain's piazza becomes a vibrant gathering place, where street musicians, artists, and vendors contribute to the lively atmosphere.

The tradition of tossing coins into the fountain adds to its allure. Legend has it that doing so ensures a return visit to Rome. This ritual has turned the fountain into a symbol of hope and renewal, further enhancing its spectacle. The Trevi Fountain stands as a testament to the enduring power of art and architecture to captivate and inspire. Its spectacle continues to draw visitors from around the world, leaving an unforgettable impression on all who behold it.

Trevi Fountain as a Spectacle

In the heart of Rome, the Trevi Fountain is a masterpiece that harmoniously blends mythology and nature. The fountain's central figure is Oceanus, the Greek god of the sea, majestically presiding over the watery realm. His chariot, drawn by two seahorses, symbolizes the contrasting moods of the ocean, with one horse calm and the other spirited.

Tritons, half-man, half-fish creatures, guide the seahorses, their powerful horns echoing the sound of crashing waves. Agrippa and Virgo, personifications of abundance and health, flank Oceanus, representing the life-giving properties of water. The fountain's intricate carvings depict scenes from Roman mythology, where gods and goddesses interact with nature's elements.

The Trevi Fountain is not merely a work of art but a testament to the ancient Romans' reverence for water. Its construction was inspired by the Aqua Virgo aqueduct, a marvel of engineering that brought fresh water to the city. The fountain's location at the junction of three roads, known as the "Tre Vie," further underscores its significance as a source of life and prosperity.

Today, the Trevi Fountain remains a beloved symbol of Rome, attracting visitors from around the world. Its waters, imbued with the spirit of mythology and nature, continue to enchant and inspire, making it a timeless masterpiece that celebrates the enduring bond between humanity and the natural world.

Mythology and Nature

Trevi Fountain

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