A Brief History of Rome’s Trevi Fountain
Discover the legend, art, and history behind Rome’s iconic Trevi Fountain.
The Origins of the Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain, or Fontana di Trevi in Italian, stands as one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks. Its origins trace back to ancient times, long before the fountain as we know it was ever built. The fountain marks the terminal point of the Acqua Vergine aqueduct, which was originally constructed in 19 BC. According to legend, the source of this aqueduct was discovered by a young girl—hence the name ‘Vergine,’ meaning ‘virgin.’ This story is immortalized on the fountain’s façade, where a scene depicts the girl guiding thirsty Roman soldiers to the spring.
The Acqua Vergine aqueduct was commissioned by Marcus Agrippa, a Roman statesman and general, to supply water to the Baths of Agrippa. Over the centuries, the aqueduct remained in use, though it suffered damage during the Gothic invasions of the 6th century. Despite these setbacks, the aqueduct was restored multiple times, ensuring that the Trevi area continued to receive fresh water.
The Evolution of the Fountain
Before the current Baroque masterpiece was erected, a much simpler fountain existed at the site. This earlier version was demolished in the 17th century, and Pope Urban VIII commissioned a new fountain to mark the terminus of the Acqua Vergine. However, it was Pope Clement XII who truly transformed the site. In 1732, he launched a design competition to create a grand fountain that would reflect the majesty of Rome.
The competition was won by Alessandro Galilei, but the Roman public rejected the idea of a non-Roman architect designing such a quintessentially Roman monument. As a result, the commission was given to Nicola Salvi, a Roman architect whose design was inspired by the work of Pietro da Cortona. Salvi’s vision was to combine the palace front and the fountain into a single, dramatic composition.
The Design and Construction
Nicola Salvi’s design for the Trevi Fountain was a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. The fountain stands 85 feet (26 meters) high and 160 feet (49 meters) wide, making it the largest Baroque fountain in Rome. Construction began in 1732 and took nearly 30 years to complete. Salvi died in 1751, and the project was finished by Giuseppe Pannini, who made slight alterations to the original design.
The central figure of the fountain is Oceanus, the Titan god of the sea, sculpted by Pietro Bracci. Oceanus stands atop a shell-shaped chariot, pulled by two sea horses and accompanied by tritons. The sea horses represent the contrasting moods of the ocean—one calm and the other wild. On either side of Oceanus are statues of Abundance and Salubrity (Health), symbolizing the benefits of the aqueduct’s pure water.
The fountain’s façade is adorned with natural rock formations, gushing water, and mythological figures, all contributing to its dramatic effect. The water flows from the central arch, cascading down into the basin below. The Trevi Fountain is not only a work of art but also a testament to the engineering prowess of ancient Rome, as it continues to be fed by the Acqua Vergine aqueduct.
Baroque Artistry and Symbolism
The Trevi Fountain is a quintessential example of Baroque art, characterized by its grandeur, drama, and movement. The fountain’s design reflects the Baroque emphasis on theatricality and emotional impact. The central triumphal arch, with its mythological and allegorical figures, creates a sense of awe and wonder.
The theme of the fountain is the ‘Taming of the Waters,’ symbolizing the mastery of nature through human ingenuity. The figures of Oceanus, Abundance, and Salubrity represent the benefits of water—life, prosperity, and health. The fountain’s design also foreshadows the Neoclassical movement, which sought inspiration from ancient Greek and Roman art and culture.
Legends and Traditions
The Trevi Fountain is surrounded by legends and traditions, the most famous of which is the coin toss. According to legend, those who toss a coin into the fountain’s waters will return to Rome. This tradition has become a beloved ritual for visitors from around the world. The coins are collected daily and donated to charity, supporting various social programs in Rome.
Another legend associated with the fountain is the story of the young girl who discovered the source of the Acqua Vergine. This tale is depicted on the fountain’s façade and serves as a reminder of the fountain’s ancient origins. The Trevi Fountain has also been featured in numerous books and films, most notably Federico Fellini’s La Dolce Vita (1960), which helped cement its status as a cultural icon.
Modern-Day Significance
Today, the Trevi Fountain remains one of Rome’s most popular tourist attractions. It is open to the public 24 hours a day, and visitors from all over the world come to admire its beauty and participate in the coin toss tradition. The fountain has undergone several restorations over the years, including a major renovation in 2014–2015, which ensured its preservation for future generations.
The Trevi Fountain is not only a symbol of Rome’s rich history and artistic heritage but also a testament to the enduring power of public art. Its grandeur and beauty continue to inspire awe and wonder, making it a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Eternal City.
FAQs About the Trevi Fountain
- What is the Trevi Fountain? The Trevi Fountain is a Baroque fountain in Rome, Italy, known for its grandeur and the tradition of tossing coins into its waters.
- Who designed the Trevi Fountain? The fountain was designed by Nicola Salvi and completed by Giuseppe Pannini in 1762.
- What is the legend of the Trevi Fountain? According to legend, those who toss a coin into the fountain’s waters will return to Rome.
- What is the significance of the Acqua Vergine aqueduct? The Acqua Vergine aqueduct supplies water to the Trevi Fountain and has been in use since ancient times.
- How tall is the Trevi Fountain? The fountain stands 85 feet (26 meters) high and 160 feet (49 meters) wide.
Key Facts About the Trevi Fountain
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Piazza di Trevi, Rome, Italy |
| Designer | Nicola Salvi |
| Completion Date | 1762 |
| Height | 85 feet (26 meters) |
| Width | 160 feet (49 meters) |
| Central Figure | Oceanus, sculpted by Pietro Bracci |
| Water Source | Acqua Vergine aqueduct |
| Tradition | Coin toss for a return to Rome |
Conclusion
The Trevi Fountain is more than just a beautiful monument; it is a symbol of Rome’s enduring legacy and artistic brilliance. From its ancient origins to its Baroque splendor, the fountain continues to captivate visitors with its grandeur and charm. Whether you’re tossing a coin into its waters or simply admiring its artistry, the Trevi Fountain is a must-see destination that embodies the spirit of Rome.
