Trevi Fountain, Rome

History of Trevi Fountain

Trevi Fountain was designed by Nicola Salvi an Italian architect and finished by Pietro Bracci. Being one of the oldest water sources in Rome, the magnificent fountain dates back to Roman times. The fountain was constructed to signal the last destination of the Aqua Virgo, the tunnel that supplied water to Roman Bathrooms. It was constructed where three roads ended giving it the name Trevi meaning three streets. The fountain gets water from the Aqua Virgo aqueduct which, according to legend was discovered by a young virgin girl. She, in turn, showed it to thirsty Roman soldiers.

Statues in the Trevi Fountain

In the middle of the fountain stands the statue of Oceanus, the Greek sea god under a triumphal arch. In the middle are two seahorses pulling his chariot with one wild and one docile to represent the different sea moods. The horses are led by 2 Tritons, with the older holding a twisted shell announcing they are passing. On the side are the statues of Abundance and Salubrity. The statute of the virgin girl is on the right side of the fountain.

Beauty of the fountain

There’s a row of seats constructed in front of the fountain like you would find in a theater. Surrounding the statues, there are natural outlines that blend with the man-made marble features to produce a breathtaking sight. The beauty of the fountain is seen in the water and stones. The soothing sounds of the gushing water are audible from the streets nearby and they climax when you get to the fountain.

Legend of throwing coins in the fountain

You are supposed to throw a coin in the fountain with your right hand over your left shoulder and with your back to the fountain though it’s so big you can’t miss it.

Legend has it that if you throw a coin in the fountain, you will visit Rome again. If you throw two, you will find love and if you throw three, your love will marry you.

There are approximately 3000 Euros are thrown into the fountain daily. They are then collected and given to a charity organization named Caritas in Italy.  

Smaller Fountain

To the right of the steps, there is a tiny fountain meant for newlyweds. From it, they drink water from a glass and then break it such that nobody else drinks from it symbolizing fidelity.