The Trevi Fountain

The history of the Trevi Fountain began 2000 years ago. In the 1st century BC, Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa, a friend and son-in-law of Emperor Augustus, decided to build an aqueduct in Rome, which he named "Acqua della Vergine" (Virgin Water). This was a unique structure that not only has survived to this day but is still in operation. Of course, the main goal of Marcus Agrippa was to supply water to the baths on the Field of Mars.

The aqueduct was restored many times over the centuries. Until the beginning of the 17th century, one could quench their thirst from a modest spring flowing into a stone bowl in the Trevi Square. Pope Urban VIII decided to decorate the capital's center with more imposing architecture. One of Italy's greatest Baroque masters, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, was tasked with designing the new fountain. Bernini completed the initial project of the fountain, however, the death of Pope Urban VIII halted all work.

With the arrival of the year 1700, the designs were brought to light again, and a pupil of Bernini's, Carlo Fontana, began working on them. The architect enhanced the imagery of the original project, placing a powerful sculpture of Neptune and his servants at the head of the fountain.

Fontana passed away in 1714, and the construction was again stalled. Pope Clement XII announced a competition for the position of the chief architect. In the contest among sixteen renowned engineers and architects of the 18th century, Nicola Salvi won. The winner faced a dual task. On one hand, he was to create something grandiose and impressive, and on the other hand – to organically integrate his project into the architectural look of the Trevi Square. The construction of the fountain took a whole 30 years: from 1732 to 1762.

Looking at the Trevi Square today, one would undoubtedly perceive the Palazzo Poli and the fountain as a unified architectural ensemble. Nicola Salvi excelled in all tasks. And, moreover, under the architect's supervision, astonishingly beautiful sculptures filled with many images were created.

The Trevi Fountain was completed in 1762 by Giuseppe Pannini, who made significant alterations to the original plans, including the substitution of the allegories for the initially planned sculptures of Agrippa and Trivia, the Roman virgin. The fountain was officially inaugurated on 22 May 1762 by Pope Clement XIII.

Constructed primarily from Travertine stone quarried near Tivoli, approximately 35 kilometers (22 miles) east of Rome, the Trevi Fountain stands as a testament to the artistic and architectural endeavors of the Baroque period, embodying the grandeur and creativity that define this era in history.

The Trevi Fountain stands approximately 26.3 meters high and 49.15 meters wide, making it the largest Baroque fountain in Rome and one of the most famous in the world. The fountain is constructed from travertine stone, the same material used for the Colosseum, and Carrara marble for the statues. Its location against the Palazzo Poli provides a stunning backdrop, with the sound of cascading water creating a serene atmosphere in the heart of the city.

The style of the Trevi Fountain is an incredible combination of strict classical style with elements of neoclassicism and the theatrical late Baroque.

The central inscription with the coat of arms of Pope Clement XII symbolizes Glory and also reminds us that this pope was the client of the project.

At the center of the sculptural Trevi Fountain is a triumphal arch, which is framed by four Corinthian columns. From the arch emerges an open shell, upon which stands the god Ocean.

The shell is carried by two sea horses. One horse is wild, and the other is calm. These horses are led by tritons, created by the master Pietro Bracci. One triton is depicted as young, and the other as old. With this, the master wanted to show the different characteristics that distinguish man and nature.

On both sides of the central niche, there are various sculptures as well.

To the right, if facing the famous Trevi Fountain, in the niche, there is an allegorical figure of "Health" executed by the master Filippo della Valle. Above this sculpture is a relief "The Shepherdess and Soldiers". The girl shows the weary soldiers the source at the intersection of three roads. This composition was made by the master Andrea Bergondi.

On the left side of the central niche, looking at the fountain, there is an allegorical image of "Abundance" by the master Filippo della Valle. The relief above, depicting the scene where Marcus Agrippa orders the construction of the aqueduct, was executed by the master Grossi.

The fountain has undergone several restorations throughout its history to preserve its beauty and structural integrity. The most recent major restoration was completed in 2015. Funded by the fashion brand Fendi, this project involved cleaning the sculptures, replacing the water pipes, and installing new lighting to enhance its nighttime appearance. The restoration has helped ensure the fountain continues to enchant visitors with its magnificence.

The tradition of throwing coins into the Trevi Fountain comes from a 1954 movie "Three Coins in the Fountain”. According to the legend, throwing one coin ensures a return to Rome, two coins lead to a new romance, and three coins lead to marriage. The ritual involves tossing the coin over your left shoulder with your right hand. Weekly cleaning of the fountain brings in an amount that sometimes reaches $10-11 thousand, which is donated to charity.

The Trevi Fountain, with its rich history, stunning architecture, and enduring traditions, remains a symbol of Rome's eternal beauty and a testament to the city's deep historical and cultural heritage.