Rome’s Trevi Fountain history

Few landmarks in Rome capture the city’s romantic and historic essence quite like the Trevi Fountain. This Baroque masterpiece, with its cascading waters and intricate sculptures, has drawn travelers for centuries, each tossing in a coin with a hopeful wish. But beyond its charm, the Trevi Fountain has a rich history, deeply woven into Rome’s cultural and architectural legacy. Today, it remains one of the most visited landmarks in Italy.

A Brief History of the Trevi Fountain

The story of the Trevi Fountain dates back to Ancient Rome, when it was part of the Aqua Virgo aqueduct, one of the city’s oldest water sources, built in 19 BCE by Agrippa, a close advisor to Emperor Augustus. This aqueduct was vital in supplying fresh water to Rome’s baths and fountains, a tradition that continues to define the Eternal City.

The modern-day Trevi Fountain was commissioned by Pope Clement XII in 1732, with a design by Nicola Salvi. Over 30 years in the making, the fountain wasn’t completed until 1762 by Giuseppe Pannini, after Salvi’s passing. The structure stands an impressive 85 feet high and 160 feet wide, making it the largest Baroque fountain in Rome. The central figure, Oceanus, the god of all water, commands the scene from a massive shell-shaped chariot, flanked by Tritons and sea horses that symbolize the varying moods of the sea.

The Trevi Fountain’s fame skyrocketed with its appearance in classic films, most notably La Dolce Vita (1960), where Anita Ekberg wades into the fountain in an iconic scene that forever linked it to romance and grandeur. Today, throwing a coin into its waters has become one of the most well-known traditions in Rome.


Why Do People Throw Coins into the Trevi Fountain?

The famous coin toss tradition is said to guarantee your return to Rome. According to legend:

• One coin ensures you will return to the Eternal City.

• Two coins promise romance.

• Three coins predict marriage to a Roman.

Every day, nearly 3,000 euros worth of coins are tossed into the fountain, amounting to over 1 million euros per year. Instead of being lost to the water, these coins are collected by the city and donated to charity, specifically Caritas, a Catholic organization that supports the homeless and those in need.

Best Times to Visit

• Early Morning (Before 8 AM): The best time for a peaceful experience. With fewer crowds, you can admire the fountain’s grandeur without distraction.

• Late Night (After 11 PM): A magical time to visit. The fountain is beautifully illuminated, and the nighttime atmosphere adds to its romantic appeal.

• Avoid Peak Hours (10 AM – 7 PM): Midday and early evening are the busiest times, when tour buses unload waves of visitors.

Changes Due to Tourism & Preservation Efforts

• Strict Rules: Due to past incidents of tourists climbing into the fountain (a la La Dolce Vita), security is now enforced. Jumping or even dipping your feet in the water can result in a fine of up to €500.

• Sustainability Efforts: The city cleans the fountain regularly, and the coin collection is carefully managed to support Rome’s social welfare programs.


Where to Stay Near the Trevi Fountain

For travelers who want to stay close to the heart of Rome, there are several boutique hotels and luxury stays near the Trevi Fountain.

• Hotel Barocco: A charming boutique hotel just a short walk from the Trevi Fountain, offering elegant rooms with a classic Roman atmosphere.

• Palazzo Scanderbeg: A luxury stay housed in a 15th-century building, blending historic charm with modern amenities.

• Harry’s Bar Trevi Hotel & Restaurant: This hotel has direct views of the Trevi Fountain, perfect for those who want a once-in-a-lifetime experience of seeing the fountain at dawn from their window.

• Portrait Roma's Lungarno Collection: A sleek, high-end hotel near the Spanish Steps, offering refined luxury and personalized service.


The Trevi Fountain is more than just a tourist attraction—it’s a timeless piece of Rome’s history, blending art, mythology, and tradition. While today’s crowds make it harder to have a private moment with this masterpiece, the magic of tossing a coin and making a wish remains as powerful as ever. Whether you’re visiting at sunrise for a tranquil experience or at night to witness its glow under the city lights, the Trevi Fountain is an essential stop on any trip to Rome.