The Trevi Fountain, an iconic symbol of Rome, is a must-visit attraction for millions of tourists each year. But what makes this Baroque masterpiece so captivating? Let’s delve into the history, design, and legends surrounding this renowned landmark.
Standing at 26.3 meters high and 19.8 meters wide, the Trevi Fountain is the largest Baroque fountain in the city. It’s a spectacle of water, art, and history that has enchanted visitors for centuries. But where did it all begin?
The History of the Trevi Fountain
The origins of the Trevi Fountain date back to 19 BC, when Roman Emperor Augustus ordered the construction of an aqueduct to bring water to the city’s central district. This aqueduct, known as Aqua Virgo, was one of the earliest Roman aqueducts and served as the primary water source for the Trevi Fountain.
However, the fountain we see today is a result of a 17th-century redesign. In 1622, Pope Urban VIII commissioned architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini to design a new fountain at the terminal point of Aqua Virgo. Bernini’s design featured a dramatic, asymmetrical facade with a central niche for a sculpture. Unfortunately, Bernini’s design was never realized due to the outbreak of the Thirty Years’ War.
The Design: Bernini’s Successors
It wasn’t until 1732 that Bernini’s successor, Nicola Salvi, began work on the fountain. Salvi’s design retained Bernini’s asymmetrical facade but replaced the central niche with a grand sculptural group depicting Oceanus, a mythological figure, being pulled by two sea horses. The fountain’s construction was completed in 1751, nearly two decades after Salvi’s death.
Salvi’s design incorporated three levels of niches, each adorned with tritons, shells, and other marine motifs. The central niche features Oceanus, surrounded by tritons blowing conch shells, while the side niches contain statues of Abundance and Health. The fountain’s facade is crowned with the emblem of Pope Clement XII, under whom the project was completed.
The Legend of the Trevi Fountain
No visit to the Trevi Fountain would be complete without learning about its legendary coin-throwing ritual. According to tradition, visitors toss a coin into the fountain using their right hand over their left shoulder. This custom is said to ensure a return to Rome, with each coin thrown increasing the likelihood of a future visit.
The origins of this tradition are unclear, but it’s believed to have started in the early 20th century. Today, the coins thrown into the fountain amount to a substantial sum, with the proceeds going towards charity. Since 2001, the Italian charity Caritas has collected the coins and used them to fund initiatives for the needy and homeless in Rome.
The Trevi Fountain in Popular Culture
The Trevi Fountain has captivated not only visitors but also artists and filmmakers throughout history. Its grandeur and beauty have made it a popular backdrop for movies, including the iconic scene in “La Dolce Vita” where Anita Ekberg wades into the fountain’s waters. More recently, the fountain was featured in the 2010 film “To Rome with Love.”
In literature, the Trevi Fountain has inspired numerous works, from poems to novels. One notable example is Elizabeth Peters’ mystery novel “The Trevi Fountain,” which weaves a tale of intrigue and history around the fountain’s legend.
Visiting the Trevi Fountain Today
Today, the Trevi Fountain remains one of Rome’s most popular attractions, drawing an estimated 3,000 visitors per hour during peak season. To fully appreciate its beauty, it’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the evening, when the crowds are thinner and the lighting is softer.
When you visit, take a moment to notice the intricate details of the fountain’s design, from the playful sea horses to the stern face of Oceanus. And, of course, don’t forget to make a wish and toss a coin into the fountain. Who knows? You might just find yourself returning to Rome again and again.
As you leave the Trevi Fountain, take a moment to appreciate the living history it represents. From its humble beginnings as a water source to its current status as a global icon, this fountain has witnessed centuries of Roman life. And as you walk away, remember the words of Mark Twain: “Rome is a city of echoes, and they are always international.” So go forth, and let your own echoes resonate through the eternal city.
