Trevi Fountain

Overview

The Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi) is the largest, most spectacular, and celebrated Baroque fountain in the world. Dominating a tiny square, this massive, theatrical monument of white travertine and crashing turquoise water is a masterpiece of Roman art.

Highlights

• The Sculptures: The massive, muscular central figure of Oceanus commanding a dramatic shell-chariot pulled by magnificent sea horses, representing the unpredictable, violent moods of the sea.
• The Architecture: The fountain does not stand freely; it is, integrated into the entire massive rear facade of the Palazzo Poli, serving as a dramatic, architectural stage set.
• The Coin Toss: The famous, specific tradition holds that tossing one coin backward over your left shoulder into the water guarantees you will eventually return to Rome.

History

Completed in 1762 by Nicola Salvi, the fountain marks the terminal point of the Acqua Virgo—a important, purely underground ancient Roman aqueduct built by Agrippa in 19 BC that still supplies the fountain with clean water today. The vast amount of coins thrown into the basin (nearly €1.5 million a year) is securely collected by the city and donated to Caritas (a Catholic charity for the poor).

Visitor Tips

• The Crowds: The tiny square is packed with thousands of tourists by midday. You should arrive before 7:30 AM if you want a peaceful, magical experience.
• The Night View: It is breathtaking when illuminated at night.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.