Rome Travel Guide

Fontana di Trevi

Compared to ancient Rome monuments the Trevi fountain is relatively young. It was built “only” 240 years ago. Several popes had been planning construction of a fountain in the important place where the Aqueduct Aqua Virgo once ended. Eventually it was approved and commissioned by Pope Clement XII, whose coats of arms decorates the top of the fountain). The design was one of Nicola Salvi. The fountain represents the power of oceans - in the middle you can see Oceanus in a shall chariot guided by two Tritons taming hippocampi (see horses). The other sculptures are allegories of beneficial effects of water.

When you are are at the Trevi Fountain it is a tradition to turn your back to the water and toss a coin in over your shoulder. They say this guarantees you are not in Rome for the last time.