The secrets of Trevi Fountain in Rome, Italy

A fountain built for a king and a Pope
The Trevi Fountain’s grandeur dates back to the 18th century when Pope Clement XII commissioned Nicola Salvi to create a fountain that would befit Rome’s splendor. Though Salvi passed before seeing the fountain complete, the final work—finished by Pietro Bracci—is a breathtaking tribute to both men. Carved from travertine, the same lustrous stone used in the Colosseum, the fountain stands an impressive 85 feet tall and 65 feet wide. In its heyday, it was a marvel of engineering, bringing water to the city from miles away, a feat that exemplified both artistic brilliance and sheer Roman ambition.
Today, the fountain is more than a relic of history; it’s a symbol of Rome’s eternal charm and power, capturing the imaginations of visitors from around the world.
 

 

An artistic odyssey in the heart of Rome
For those with an appreciation for art, the Trevi Fountain offers a feast for the senses. The central figure, Oceanus, god of the seas, commands the fountain in a chariot pulled by mythological horses—one restless, one calm—symbolizing the ebb and flow of the ocean. The surrounding figures represent health, abundance, and fertility, offering a tribute to both the natural world and human prosperity. Look closely, and you’ll spot intricate details: a horse's mane flowing like the sea, or Oceanus's commanding gaze, each crafted with precision that only reveals itself to those who linger. Discerning travellers with an eye for detail will appreciate this: each figure and each carving tells its own tale. To experience this fully, we recommend a private tour with an art historian who can reveal these subtle narratives that elude the casual observer.
 

 

The ritual of the coin toss
Travellers may be familiar with the legend: a single coin tossed into the fountain ensures a return to Rome; two coins invite a new romance; three coins hint at marriage. This ritual, though popularized by film, has roots in Roman superstition and tradition that date back centuries. Each year, close to €1.5 million is gathered from the fountain, destined for charity to support the city’s underprivileged. Travellers of discerning taste can arrange an early-morning visit to toss their coins in peace, when the square is still bathed in the gentle glow of dawn, and the fountain’s majesty is unchallenged by crowds.


 

The ultimate Roman trattorias
After soaking in the history and beauty of the Trevi Fountain, continue the journey by stepping into one of Rome’s exquisite dining establishments. Just a few steps from the fountain, La Rosetta offers a fine seafood menu that perfectly complements the fountain's marine themes. For those seeking traditional Roman fare, Il Vero Alfredo, home of the original fettuccine Alfredo, provides an unmatched dining experience with a distinctly luxurious touch. And for dessert, there’s nothing quite like a gelato from San Crispino, where artisanal flavors make each bite unforgettable.
 
Il Vero Alfredo, original Fettuccine
 

A luxury escape in the Eternal City 
While Trevi Fountain is undeniably magical at any hour, the fountain takes on an almost ethereal quality at night, bathed in soft lighting that illuminates every detail of its sculpted figures. To capture Rome in true luxury, book an exclusive vacation villa to feel like royalty in one of the most exclusive destinations in the world.
 
Villa Clara, Rome