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The Trevi Fountain (Italian: Fontana di Trevi) is Rome’s most iconic Baroque masterpiece, a true gem among the city’s many fountains. Majestic and theatrical, it resembles an ancient drama sculpted in stone rather than a simple water source. Owing to its grand scale, central location, and striking beauty, the fountain attracts millions of visitors to the Italian capital each year.
Essential Information for Visiting the Trevi Fountain
When Was the Trevi Fountain Built?
What Does “Trevi” Mean?
What’s the age of the Trevi fountain?
What is the best time to go visit the Trevi fountain?
Do I need a ticket to visit the Trevi fountain?
Why do people throw coins in Trevi Fountain?
What is written on the Trevi Fountain?
A Detailed Guide to the Trevi Fountain’s Sculptures and Symbols
To truly appreciate the grandeur of the Trevi Fountain, it’s worth delving into the symbolism behind each exquisitely carved figure and decorative element. This step-by-step guide, moving from top to bottom, reveals the rich stories and artistic intentions embedded in the fountain’s design—adding depth and meaning to your visit.
Use this guide while standing before the Trevi Fountain to connect more profoundly with its artistry and enduring legends.
The Papal Tiara and Heraldic Shield
At the very top of the fountain, you’ll see a grand sculptural group crowned by the unmistakable Papal Tiara, a traditional symbol of the Pope’s supreme authority. Just below it are two crossed keys representing Saint Peter’s keys to Heaven—another powerful emblem of papal influence. 
Interestingly, the central shield does not feature a detailed coat of arms, hinting at the fountain’s broader significance—it is a monument for all Romans, not merely a tribute to one particular pontiff.
On either side of the shield, two angels blow trumpets, symbolising Fame and heralding Pope Clement XII, who commissioned the construction of the fountain. These dynamic figures, sculpted by Paolo Benaglia, are a striking example of Baroque artistry, full of movement and theatrical flair.
The Commemorative Inscription and Allegorical Figures
Just beneath the Papal Tiara is a prominent Latin inscription that commemorates Pope Clement XII’s patronage of the fountain:
CLEMENS XII PONT. MAX. AQUAM VIRGINEM COPIA ET SALUBRITATE COMMENDATAM CULTU MAGNIFICO ORNAVIT ANNO DOMINI MDCCXXXV PONTIF. VI
Translated, this reads:
“Clement XII, Supreme Pontiff, adorned the Aqua Virgo—praised for its abundance and healthfulness—with magnificent decoration, in the year of the Lord 1735, the sixth year of his pontificate.”
Four allegorical statues surround the inscription, each sculpted by Andrea Bergondi, representing virtues associated with Rome:
- Far Left – Fruitfulness: Holding a cornucopia brimming with fruit and grain, symbolising fertility and abundance.
- Centre Left – Abundance (Copia): Gracefully holding wheat and a cornucopia, she represents nourishment and prosperity.
- Centre Right – Health (Salubritas): A serpent drinks from the bowl in her hand, a classical symbol of healing and purity.
- Far Right – Fertility and Flora: Joyfully scattering flowers, she symbolises renewal and flourishing life.
Together, these figures celebrate the life-giving benefits of the Aqua Virgo aqueduct, which has supplied fresh water to Rome since ancient times.
Completion Inscription Honouring Pope Benedict XIV
Beneath Clement XII’s inscription is a second Latin dedication, honouring the pope who brought the project to completion:
PERFECIT BENEDICTUS XIV PON. MAX.
Translated, it means:
“Benedict XIV, Supreme Pontiff, completed this work.”
Following Clement XII’s death, Pope Benedict XIV ensured that construction and funding continued, bringing this remarkable monument to its final form.
Left Bas-Relief: Agrippa Approves the Aqueduct
On the left, a detailed bas-relief sculpted by Giovan Battista Grossi captures General Agrippa approving plans for the Aqua Virgo aqueduct in 19 BC. Agrippa confidently examines plans presented by an engineer, symbolizing Rome’s ambitious engineering achievements.
Right Bas-Relief: The Discovery of the Spring
On the right-hand side, a bas-relief by Andrea Bergondi depicts the legendary moment when a young maiden (“virgo”) guided Roman soldiers to a pure spring, marking the mythical origin of the aqueduct and giving it its name, *Aqua Virgo*.
The Central Sculptural Group: Oceanus and His Chariot
At the heart of the fountain stands Oceanus, a powerful Titan god representing all the world’s oceans.
He rides a shell-shaped chariot drawn by two seahorses—one calm, the other wild—each led by a Triton, symbolising the contrasting temperaments of the sea. Sculpted by Pietro Bracci, this dynamic scene captures the expressive spirit of the Baroque style.
Above Oceanus, a Latin inscription reads:
POSITIS SIGNIS ET ANAGLYPHIS TABULIS IUSSU CLEMENTIS XIII PONT. MAX. OPUS CUM OMNI CULTU ABSOLUTUM A.D. MDCCLXII
Translated, it states:
“The statues and reliefs having been placed, the work was completed by order of Clement XIII, Supreme Pontiff, in the year of the Lord 1762.”
The Goddess of Abundance (Left Niche)
To Oceanus’s left is Abbondanza, the Goddess of Abundance, sculpted by Filippo della Valle. She gently holds a cornucopia, symbolising the prosperity and nourishment brought to Rome through the aqueduct.
Oceanus – Lord of the Sea (Centre)
At the centre of the fountain, Oceanus is depicted stepping forward with commanding presence—symbolising the immense power and life-giving force of water.
The Goddess of Health (Right Niche)
Opposite Abbondanza, also by Filippo della Valle, stands Salubrità, the Goddess of Health. She holds a spear and a bowl from which a snake drinks—an ancient symbol of healing—representing the purity and restorative power of the fountain’s waters.
Triton with Restless Seahorse (Left)
Beneath Oceanus, on the left, a powerful Triton wrestles with a wild seahorse, symbolising the stormy and unpredictable nature of the sea—another dramatic composition by Pietro Bracci.
Triton with Calm Seahorse (Right)
On the right, a more composed Triton blows a conch shell, guiding a calm seahorse—representing the ocean’s serene and life-sustaining character. This elegant contrast captures the dual essence of the sea.
Together, these figures form a harmonious tribute to Rome’s connection with water, showcasing both its strength and splendour. The Trevi Fountain brings history, mythology, and artistic expression vividly to life in one of the city’s most celebrated monuments.
The History of the Trevi Fountain
Constructed in the 18th century, the Trevi Fountain has a fascinating history that dates back to the days of ancient Rome. Its roots can be traced to around 19 BC, during the reign of Emperor Augustus, when Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa, his trusted advisor, undertook a major reorganisation of Rome’s water supply. Among his key achievements was the construction of the Aqua Virgo aqueduct, designed to provide the city’s population with fresh drinking water.
The Aqua Virgo—so named for the purity of its water—extended for approximately 12 kilometres (around 7.5 miles), serving the citizens of ancient Rome for centuries.
Until the early 17th century, visitors to Piazza di Trevi could still drink from a simple spring that flowed into a stone basin. Pope Urban VIII believed the city deserved something more magnificent and commissioned the renowned Baroque architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini to design a fittingly grand fountain for the square.
Construction and Statues
The original design of the fountain was conceived by the celebrated artist Gian Lorenzo Bernini. However, following the death of Pope Urban VIII in 1644, the project was suspended, and Bernini’s plans were never realised. It was not until the early 18th century that the idea was revived under Bernini’s pupil, Carlo Fontana. Fontana retained the essence of Bernini’s Baroque vision while incorporating classical elements, emphasising proportion and harmony.
His updated design placed a grand sculpture of Oceanus—often mistaken for Neptune—at its centre, accompanied by Tritons and mythical sea creatures symbolising the ocean’s might.
After Fontana’s death in 1714, the project was again delayed. It wasn’t until 1730 that Pope Clement XII organised a prestigious competition to appoint a new chief architect. Nicola Salvi triumphed over fifteen other renowned contenders, winning the opportunity to create a breathtaking masterpiece that would both amaze visitors and complement the architecture of Trevi Square.
Salvi was tasked with creating a fountain that was not only monumental and visually captivating but also harmoniously integrated into the façade of the Palazzo Poli. His bold and imaginative design came to life in a spectacular display of Baroque artistry—cementing the Trevi Fountain’s place as one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks.
The Trevi Fountain Today
Standing in Piazza di Trevi today, visitors may not immediately realise that the Palazzo Poli and the Trevi Fountain form a single, unified architectural composition. Architect Nicola Salvi skilfully integrated the two, creating a striking arrangement of dynamic sculptures that continue to enchant visitors centuries later.
The Trevi Fountain took 30 years to complete—from 1732 to 1762. By the time it was finished, an awe-inspiring scene of Oceanus emerging dramatically from the water had taken shape against the Baroque façade of Palazzo Poli. Salvi’s design captures energy and movement so vividly that it’s easy to imagine Oceanus’s chariot surging forward through waves and spray.
Today, visitors from across the globe come to admire Rome’s most famous fountain and to take part in a much-loved tradition: tossing coins into its waters.
How to Make a Wish at the Trevi Fountain
According to tradition, tossing coins into the fountain brings different blessings:
- One coin: Ensures your return to Rome.
- Two coins: You’ll return and fall in love.
- Three coins: You’ll return, fall in love, and marry in Rome.
To make your wish properly, stand with your back to the fountain and toss your coin using your right hand over your left shoulder.
What Happens to All Those Coins?
The coins tossed each day quickly add up. On average, visitors contribute around €1,500 daily—totalling over €1 million every year. The collected money is donated to Caritas Roma, a charitable organisation supporting those in need throughout the city.
Cleaning the Fountain and Collecting Coins
To witness a fascinating part of the fountain’s maintenance, visit early on Monday mornings (around 08:00).
At this time, city workers drain and gently clean the fountain, collecting the thousands of coins left by hopeful visitors during the week.
Watching this careful process offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how Rome preserves one of its most treasured landmarks.
The Origin of the Fountain’s Name
The name “Trevi Fountain” has inspired a number of fascinating legends and interpretations. The most widely accepted explanation connects the name to its location at the junction of three major Roman streets. Indeed, scholars agree that the Italian word trevi is derived from the Latin trivium, meaning “a meeting point of three roads.”
A charming alternative tale tells of a young woman named Trivia, who is said to have guided ancient Roman builders to a hidden spring of remarkably pure water. This spring later supplied the Aqua Virgo aqueduct, which in turn feeds the fountain.
Interesting Facts about the Trevi Fountain
- The Trevi Fountain is the largest Baroque fountain in Rome, measuring approximately 26 metres (85 feet) high and 49 metres (161 feet) wide.
- Visitors throw around €3,800 (approx. £3,250) in coins into the fountain each day—totalling over €1.4 million per year. The money is regularly collected and donated to the Catholic charity Caritas to fund local community initiatives.
- In the 1830s, Russian Princess Mariya Volkonskaya rented the first floor of Palazzo Poli, which serves as the backdrop to the fountain. She hosted prominent cultural figures such as writer Nikolay Gogol, painters Karl Bryullov and Fyodor Bruni, and historian Mikhail Pogodin.
- The Trevi Fountain famously appeared in Federico Fellini’s iconic film La Dolce Vita (1960), featuring Marcello Mastroianni and Anita Ekberg, who famously stepped into the fountain’s waters on a cold January night.
- The fountain also features in William Wyler’s classic film Roman Holiday (1953), starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck, as well as the romantic comedy Madly in Love (Innamorato pazzo) (1981), starring Adriano Celentano and Ornella Muti.
- The fountain continues to be supplied by the ancient Aqua Virgo aqueduct, first constructed in 19 BC, highlighting the enduring legacy of Roman engineering.
- Each day, the Trevi Fountain circulates approximately 80 million litres (21 million gallons) of water—though this is continuously recycled to conserve resources.
- The fountain underwent a major restoration funded by the fashion house Fendi between 2014 and 2015, costing around €2.2 million. Another significant cleaning was carried out in late 2024 in preparation for Rome’s 2025 Jubilee Year.
- Trevi Fountain is beautifully illuminated after sunset, making the evening hours one of the best times to admire its splendour and capture atmospheric photographs.
Reconstruction 2014–2015
From June 2014 to November 2015, the Trevi Fountain was officially closed to visitors due to essential restoration works. The fountain’s stone structures had suffered considerable deterioration—worn down by constant water flow and the daily pressure of heavy foot traffic. Remarkably, the last major renovation had taken place over 125 years earlier. By 2014, damage to some of the sculptures had become so severe that parts began to detach, prompting urgent emergency repairs.
The fashion house Fendi took a special interest in restoring this iconic monument. The estimated cost of the renovation reached approximately €2.2 million, generously funded by the brand.
See our travel tips for What to See in 3 Days and the Top 15 Free Things to Do in Rome.
Hotels with a View of the Trevi Fountain
Accommodation with direct views of the Trevi Fountain is limited, in high demand, and tends to book out well in advance—particularly during peak tourist seasons. If you dream of waking up to the sight of the fountain just outside your window, it’s highly advisable to reserve early.
Here are three top-rated options offering unforgettable views:
- Trevi Luxury Maison – Offers an excellent central view of the Trevi Fountain and receives consistent praise from previous guests.
- Fontana di Trevi Sweet Apartment – Features a charming, side-angle view of the fountain for a unique perspective.
- Hotel Fontana – Centrally located with direct views of the fountain; however, we recommend reading guest reviews thoroughly before booking.
Sightseeing Routes
Sightseeing Route from the Spanish Steps to the Trevi Fountain
The distance from the Spanish Steps to the Trevi Fountain is just 650 metres (0.4 miles), making it an easy 8-minute walk.
As a local expert, I recommend a more scenic and self-guided sightseeing route:
- Spanish Steps.
- Piazza Barberini, home to the remarkable Triton Fountain by Gian Lorenzo Bernini.
- Quattro Fontane and the Church of San Carlo alle Quattro Fontane, designed by Francesco Borromini. See also the Guide to Borromini’s Masterpieces in Rome.
- Basilica of Sant’Andrea al Quirinale, a Baroque church designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini.
- Piazza del Quirinale, home to the Quirinal Palace—the official residence of the President of the Italian Republic—and the Fontana dei Dioscuri.
- Trevi Fountain.
This richly informative and scenic walk is just 1.5 miles (2.4 km). Allow about 1 hour to complete the route, including time for visiting churches and taking photos.
Sightseeing Route from the Trevi Fountain to the Colosseum
The Trevi Fountain lies in the Trevi district, while the Colosseum is in the Monti area. The direct distance is approximately 1 mile (1.6 km), taking around 20 minutes on foot.
For a more enriching experience, follow this self-guided sightseeing route:
- Trevi Fountain.
- Pantheon.
- Largo di Torre Argentina – the site of Julius Caesar’s assassination and now home to a cat sanctuary.
- Turtle Fountain.
- Theatre of Marcellus.
- Mouth of Truth.
- Circus Maximus.
- Colosseum.
- Altar of the Fatherland.
- Piazza del Campidoglio.
This walking route is 3.3 miles (5.3 km) long. With stops for sightseeing, the full experience takes approximately 2 hours.
If you’re interested in a private tour or would like help planning your holiday, please get in touch via the contact form.
Wishing you a wonderful visit to Rome!
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