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The Trevi Fountain is not only one of Rome's most iconic symbols but also a treasure trove of legends, stories, and curiosities that have fascinated visitors for centuries. With its stunning Baroque style and imposing sculptures, it is a must-see on any city tour, at any time of the year. Beyond its incredible beauty, the Trevi Fountain is surrounded by an aura of mystery that makes it even more captivating. In this article, we will guide you through its legends, curiosities, and suggest the best time to visit for an unforgettable experience.
The history of the Trevi Fountain
Before we dive into the legends, let's start with a bit of history. The current version of the Trevi Fountain was completed in 1762, designed by Nicola Salvi and finished by Giuseppe Pannini after decades of planning and construction. The fountain is located at the junction of three streets (hence the name "Trevi") and is fed by the ancient Aqua Virgo aqueduct, built in 19 BC by the Roman general Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa. The central figure is Oceanus, the god of waters, who rises on a shell-shaped chariot pulled by sea horses and tritons, symbolizing the different moods of the sea.
The legend of the coin toss
When you think of the Trevi Fountain, you immediately think of tossing a coin. According to tradition, tossing a coin into the fountain with your right hand over your left shoulder guarantees your return to Rome. This belief stems from ancient Roman customs, where travelers would throw coins into fountains to seek divine protection for their return journey. Today, this tradition has become a ritual, with over 1 million euros collected each year. The coins are regularly gathered and donated to Caritas, an organization that helps the needy in the city.
How to toss the coin correctly
If you want to ensure your wish comes true, there is a precise technique to follow: stand with your back to the fountain, take the coin with your right hand, and toss it over your left shoulder. It is said that one coin guarantees your return to Rome, two bring new love, and three ensure a marriage!
The story of the "Virgin"
One of the most fascinating stories related to the Trevi Fountain involves the Aqua Virgo aqueduct. According to legend, a young Roman virgin showed thirsty soldiers the way to a water source, which later inspired the construction of the aqueduct. In memory of this legend, on the right side of the fountain, barely visible to passersby, there is a relief depicting the young woman pointing to the spring for the Roman soldiers.
The fountain's role in cinema
The Trevi Fountain has inspired not only legends but also the world of cinema. The most famous scene is from Federico Fellini’s renowned film La Dolce Vita (1960), where actress Anita Ekberg wades into the fountain's waters in a dreamy and sensual sequence. This scene has immortalized the fountain in popular imagination, drawing visitors and film enthusiasts from all over the world to recreate that iconic moment (though, of course, it is strictly forbidden to enter the fountain!).
Curiosities about the Trevi Fountain
• Size and grandeur: With its impressive dimensions, 26 meters in height and 49 meters in width, the Trevi Fountain is the largest Baroque fountain in Rome and one of the most elaborate in the world.
• Tritons and sea horses: The two sea horses pulling Oceanus’s chariot represent the moods of the sea: one calm and peaceful, the other agitated and tempestuous.
• Marble and travertine: The fountain is made of Carrara marble for the statues and travertine for the facade, typical materials of Roman architecture.
• Once a source of drinking water: In Roman times, fountains like the Trevi Fountain served as public drinking water sources, fed by aqueducts that brought fresh water into the city.
• Restorations: The Trevi Fountain has undergone several restorations over the centuries, the most recent in 2014-2015, funded by the Italian fashion house Fendi, helping to preserve its beauty.
The best time to visit the Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is undoubtedly one of the most visited spots in Rome, crowded with tourists and locals at all hours of the day. To enjoy a more peaceful experience, the best time to visit is early in the morning, just after sunrise, or late at night when the crowds thin out, and the fountain is beautifully illuminated. A nighttime visit offers a particularly magical atmosphere, as the lights highlight the details of the marble sculptures.
We recommend visiting the fountain between 6:30 and 8:30 AM to enjoy a unique view. Alternatively, come after 10:00 PM for a more intimate and romantic moment.
Visit the Trevi Fountain with a private tour
For those seeking a deeper connection with Rome’s history and legends, booking a private tour is undoubtedly the best option. Accompanied by one of our certified guides, you will not only visit the Trevi Fountain but also discover lesser-known secrets and stories surrounding it. You will explore the rich history of the fountain, learn the best tips for tossing a coin, and also visit nearby monuments such as the Pantheon and Piazza di Spagna in an intimate and customized tour.
Conclusions
The Trevi Fountain is much more than just a monument: it symbolizes Roman engineering prowess, with aqueducts that have survived to this day, leaving behind a rich cultural heritage, and it stands as the emblem of Rome's Baroque magnificence. The allure of the Trevi Fountain is irresistible to all; a visit promises to be one of the most memorable moments of your trip to Rome.
By booking a private tour with us, you can fully immerse yourself in the magic of the Trevi Fountain and discover Rome through its fascinating stories and secrets. Let yourself be guided on a journey that will reveal the true heart of the Eternal City, legend by legend.
