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Where beauty is all around

  • Writer: Alessandro Raschella
    Alessandro Raschella
  • Sep 22, 2023
  • 3 min read

Updated: Jan 4, 2024

"Trevi Fountain"

Vista della Fontana di Trevi

The "Historic Center of Rome," is a timeless place, a concentration of ancient history and artistic beauty that fascinates and inspires visitors from all over the world. This fascinating district spans a vast area, embracing the piazzas, narrow winding streets, and iconic monuments that make Rome one of the world's most beloved cities. As you round the corner of each street, you may come across an artistic masterpiece. Beauty is everywhere: from the sumptuous piazzas with their resplendent fountains to the majestic palaces that tell ancient stories.


One of the most iconic and beloved places in the historic center of Rome is the Trevi Fountain: one of the most recognizable symbols of Rome, a Baroque wonder that attracts millions of visitors every year. This majestic fountain is located at the crossroads of three streets, from which it gets its name ("Trevi" comes from "Tre Vie" meaning "three roads"). The history of the Trevi Fountain dates back to 19 B.C., when the Virgin Aqueduct was built to bring fresh water to Rome. However, the fountain we see today is the result of an 18th-century renovation. In 1732, Pope Clement XII held a competition to create a new fountain to replace the ancient and modest monument. Nicola Salvi was chosen as the architect who would realize the pope's dream.


The fountain is an impressive work of art, with a richly decorated facade that stretches more than 20 meters. In the center of the composition is a large sculpture of Neptune, god of the sea, flanked by tritons and sea horses. The sculpture of Neptune is imposing and dynamic, capturing the moment when the god emerges from the waves of the sea. The tritons, mythological creatures that are half man and half fish, seem to give life to the water flowing around them, while the sea horses represent the strength and power of the sea.

Water flows and gushes from every angle, creating a soothing sound and visual spectacle that enchants visitors. Every detail of the fountain has been crafted with care and skill, from the texture of the rocks to the detail of the tritons' muscles.

The Trevi Fountain is more than just a fountain; it is a statement of artistic grandeur. Its complex structure and detailed sculptures convey a sense of movement and vitality. It is one of the most celebrated works of art of the Baroque period and a tribute to the artistry of Nicola Salvi and his collaborators.


One of the most beloved traditions associated with the Trevi Fountain is the "coin toss." According to legend, anyone who tosses a coin over his left shoulder into the fountain's water is destined to return to Rome. Tossing two assures a new love in life, while three coins assure a return to Rome, a new love and a future marriage. This tradition has made the fountain a place of ritual and hope for visitors from all over the world.

While admiring the Trevi Fountain, surrounded by tourists and locals making offerings and tossing coins, one can capture the essence of Rome: a city that has embraced its history, culture and beauty, making each visit an unforgettable experience.


The Trevi Fountain is an eternal work of art that embodies the love and admiration that people all over the world have for this extraordinary city. And as you watch the water flow and the sun shine on the surface of the tossed coins, you can be sure to return to Rome, again and again, to soak in its timeless beauty.


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