Trevi Fountain in Rome: history and tips

One of the most famous fountains in the world, the Trevi Fountain enchants and seduces all who see it, offering a breathtaking spectacle of art, architecture and engineering.

Located in the Trevi district, this majestic work of art is an extraordinary example of Roman Baroque and attracts millions of tourists and visitors every year.

The Fountain of Trevi has served as the backdrop for numerous films, helping to spread its fame around the world.

The most famous of these is undoubtedly Federico Fellini's "La Dolce Vita", a cinematic masterpiece that immortalized the fountain in one of the most famous scenes in film history, with actress Anita Ekberg sensually plunging into its waters.

This unforgettable scene further enhanced the Fountain's appeal, transforming it into a symbol not only of artistic beauty, but also of the Roman dolce vita, made up of luxury, carelessness, and a touch of transgression.

History of the Trevi Fountain in Rome

The Trevi Fountain has a thousand-year history full of legends and architectural transformations. Its origins are lost in Roman times, when the area was a crossroads of vital routes for the city.

Its very name, "Trevi", derives from the Latin word "trivium", to emphasize the exact point where three important roads met and crossed, making the place a strategic and social landmark.

The beating heart of the Trevi Fountain is the Acqua Vergine, an aqueduct whose construction dates back to 19 B.C., at the behest of Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa, son-in-law of Emperor Augustus, who understood the importance of ensuring an efficient water supply to Rome.

Over the centuries, the aqueduct underwent several modifications and restorations, including a major intervention in 1629 commissioned by Pope Urban VIII, which preserved its functionality and adapted the infrastructure to the changing needs of the city.

The Trevi Fountain in its present form is the result of the creative genius of the architect Nicola Salvi.

The project, begun in 1732, proved to be a monumental undertaking that took decades to complete. Salvi died before he could see his work completed, and it was Pietro Bracci who finished the construction in 1762, remaining faithful to his predecessor's original design.

Over time, the Fountain of Trevi has undergone several restorations to preserve its beauty and integrity.

In 1998, a major restoration was carried out, which included the thorough cleaning of the marble surfaces and the modernization of the hydraulic system to ensure the proper functioning of its water features.

Another restoration, which began on June 4, 2014, benefited from the generous support of a prestigious Italian luxury brand, while the most recent restoration was in 2024 and involved the installation of a temporary walkway that enters at the level of the pool.
Description of Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain celebrates the theme of the sea in all its splendor.

A large rectangular basin with rounded corners welcomes the work, while a walkway surrounds it, offering visitors a path from one side to the other.

A short flight of steps, slightly below the level of the square, delimits this area.

The most striking element is the rocky cliff that extends to the base of the building.

In the center, we find an imposing niche framed by columns, reminiscent of a triumphal arch.

Here stands the statue of Oceanus by Pietro Bracci. The god, wrapped in a cloth, drives a shell-shaped chariot drawn by two winged horses. These horses symbolize the states of the sea: the one on the left is the "agitated horse", while the one on the right is the "calm horse".

On either side of the central niche, two smaller niches house the statues of Salubrity and Abundance. The latter holds a horn filled with fruits and coins, the symbol of wealth.

At the foot of each column are four smaller allegorical statues: the Fertility of the Fields, sculpted by Bernardino Ludovisi; the Wealth of Autumn, created by Francesco Queirolo; and the Prosperity of the Gardens, created by Bartolomeo Pincellotti in 1735.

In the center, between the two central statues, there is a large coat of arms of the Corsini, the family of Pope Clement XII, supported by two figures of Fame, by Paolo Benaglia. Below the coat of arms is an important commemorative inscription, commissioned by the Pope himself on the occasion of the inauguration.
Trevi Fountain traditions and beliefs

One of the most famous traditions associated with the Trevi Fountain is the coin toss.

According to legend, tossing one coin into the fountain guarantees a return to Rome.

It is also said that tossing two coins leads to a romantic encounter, while tossing three coins guarantees a happy marriage.

Every day, thousands of visitors participate in these beliefs by contributing to a fund used by Caritas of Rome to help those most in need.
How to reach Trevi Fountain: directions and suggestions

There are several ways and directions to get to the magnificent Trevi Fountain, each offering a unique perspective on the beauty and vitality of Rome.

Here are our suggestions.

Metro
The quickest way to get to the Fountain is undoubtedly by subway.

The closest stop is "Barberini", served by the A line. Going down the escalators that will bring you back into the sunlight, you will be about 700 meters from the fountain.

Once you are in Piazza Barberini, look for Via del Tritone. Walk along this lively street for about 500 meters, admiring the elegant shop windows and cafes that line it.

When you reach the intersection with Via dei Poli, turn left. From here, the sound of the water and the bustle of the crowd will lead you straight to the Trevi Fountain.

Tram
If you prefer a more scenic experience, the tram is a great alternative.

The closest tram station is Piazza Venezia, served by line 8 of the Rome tram network.

Get off the tram in this iconic square, surrounded by historic monuments, and you are about 900 meters from the fountain.

Enjoy the walk and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Cross Piazza Venezia and admire the imposing Altar of the Fatherland.

Continue along the narrow, winding streets that lead to the fountain and be enchanted by the artisan shops and typical trattorias that you will encounter along the way.

Bus
The bus is a comfortable and versatile way to reach the Trevi Fountain.

Several lines will bring you within walking distance of the Fountain: 52, 53, 62, 63, 71, 83, 85, 117, 160, 492 (Tritone - Fontana di Trevi stop).

Once you get off, you are only 300 meters from the Trevi Fountain.

On foot
Walking is undoubtedly the most authentic and appealing way to immerse yourself in the monumental beauty of Rome.

Surrender to the slow rhythm of your footsteps and discover hidden corners, architectural details that would escape a hurried observer.

For example, consider starting your walk in Piazza del Popolo, with its majestic Porta del Popolo and twin churches. From there, you can take the iconic Viale del Corso and continue down the avenue until you see, on your left, Via delle Muratte, which will lead you to the wonder of the Trevi Fountain.
Where to stay in Rome to see the Trevi Fountain

Staying at the FH55 Hotel Grand Hotel Palatino offers an exceptional opportunity: to quickly immerse yourself in the beating heart of Rome.

Imagine being able to reach the majestic Trevi Fountain in just 10 minutes using your preferred means of transportation.

Whether you choose a comfortable bus, a taxi, or a leisurely stroll through the city streets, the Fountain will be easily accessible.

But the benefits do not end there.

The strategic location of the FH55 Grand Hotel Palatine allows you to easily explore other iconic monuments.

In just 5 minutes, you can be in front of the imposing Colosseum, silent witness to centuries of history, and stroll through the evocative ruins of the Imperial Forums, a true open-air museum.

With its privileged location, the hotel is the ideal starting point to discover the wonders of Rome.
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