In Photos: Trevi Fountain History & Facts

The Trevi Fountain is the reason I wanted to see more of the world.

I saw an image of the Trevi Fountain on Google Images and was immediately intrgued.

It’s huge. Look at the detail. That’s not like any other fountain I’ve seen.

I remember I was eating ice cream as I tried to find the Trevi Fountain (before Google Maps when I had to use a physical map). I turned the corner and the Trevi Fountain was in front of me.

The Trevi Fountain is even bigger in person, the pictures don’t do it justice.

What happens if you throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain?

Legend has it throwing a coin into the Trevi Fountain guarantees you a return! I did this of course. And haven’t returned and that was 10 years ago!

How much money is thrown into Rome’s Trevi Fountain every day?

According the Mayor of Rome, €4,000 (£3,600) in coins are thrown into the Trevi Fountain every day! Hard to believe that much money is thrown into the fountain, but I guess it shows you how many people visit every day!

Can you drink from the Trevi Fountain?

I wouldn’t advise drinking from the fountain, that’s not it’s purpose! I’m sure they put chemicals into the water to keep the fountain clean all year round. There are more than 2,000 actual drinking water fountains around Rome you can use too.

How old is the Trevi Fountain?

The Trevi Fountain was designed by Italian architect Nicola Salvand finished in 1762.

Why is it called the Trevi Fountain?

The name Trevi Fountain is due to its location – at the junction of three streets. It’s suggested Trevi is taken from the Latin for three streets – trivium

Certainly, Timothy — here’s a clear and tourist-friendly guide to Trevi Fountain, with headings tailored to your preferred format:

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History of Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi) is Rome’s largest and most iconic Baroque fountain, completed in 1762 after a 30-year construction led by architect Nicola Salvi and finished by Giuseppe Pannini. It marks the terminus of the ancient Aqua Virgo aqueduct, originally built in 19 BC by Agrippa to supply water to the Baths of Agrippa and other Roman sites. The name “Trevi” derives from trivium, meaning “three roads,” as the fountain sits at their junction.

The fountain was commissioned by Pope Clement XII in 1730 following a design competition. Though Salvi lost to Alessandro Galilei, public outcry over Galilei’s Florentine origins led to Salvi’s appointment. The fountain was built into the rear of Palazzo Poli, transforming its façade into a theatrical backdrop. Its theme — taming of the waters — is expressed through dynamic sculptures and cascading water, symbolizing Rome’s mastery over nature and engineering.

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10 Interesting Facts About Trevi Fountain

1. The central figure is Oceanus, not Neptune, riding a shell chariot pulled by sea horses.
2. The fountain stands 26.3 metres high and 49.15 metres wide, making it the largest Baroque fountain in Rome.
3. The Aqua Virgo aqueduct still supplies water to the fountain — over 2,800,000 litres daily.
4. The coin toss tradition promises a return to Rome; ~€3,000 is thrown in daily.
5. Coins are collected and donated to Caritas, a Catholic charity supporting Rome’s needy.
6. The fountain is made of Travertine stone from Tivoli and Carrara marble for the statues.
7. The urn on the right side hides a barber’s shop — a cheeky move by Salvi to preserve aesthetics.
8. The fountain has appeared in films like La Dolce Vita, Roman Holiday, and Three Coins in the Fountain.
9. The “Ace of Cups” vase resembles a Tarot card and is a local nickname for the urn.
10. A replica of the Trevi Fountain exists in Las Vegas and other cities worldwide.

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Things to See and Do at Trevi Fountain

• Admire the Sculptures
  Oceanus, Tritons, sea horses, and allegorical figures of Abundance and Health form a dramatic tableau.
• Toss a Coin
  Stand with your back to the fountain and toss a coin over your left shoulder with your right hand — one for return, two for romance, three for marriage.
• Visit at Night
  The fountain is illuminated by over 100 LED lights, creating a magical atmosphere after sunset.
• Explore Vicus Caprarius (City of Water)
  Visit the underground ruins and aqueduct remains beneath the fountain for a glimpse into ancient Rome’s water system.
• Photograph the Palazzo Poli Façade
  The fountain’s backdrop is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture with Corinthian pilasters and papal insignia.
• Spot the Bas-Reliefs
  Above the side niches, reliefs depict the discovery and construction of the Aqua Virgo aqueduct.
• Drink from the Aqua Virgo Spouts
  On the far right, two small spouts offer fresh water from the aqueduct — safe and free.
• Join a Guided Tour
  Learn about the fountain’s history, symbolism, and restoration efforts with expert-led walking tours.
• Enjoy Nearby Cafés and Gelato Shops
  Relax in Piazza di Trevi with a coffee or gelato while soaking in the ambiance.
• Visit Nearby Attractions
  Walk to the Pantheon, Spanish Steps, or Piazza Navona — all within 10 minutes.

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Practical Information for Visiting Trevi Fountain

• Location: Piazza di Trevi, 00187 Rome, Italy
• Opening times: Open 24/7; best visited early morning or late evening to avoid crowds
• Entry: Free; no ticket required
• Coin toss access: Designated pool during restoration periods; fines apply for tossing coins into the main basin
• Metro: Barberini – Fontana di Trevi (Line A); 5-minute walk
• Bus: Lines 52, 53, 62, 85 stop nearby
• Accessibility: Viewable from piazza; stairs limit access to lower basin
• Toilets: Available nearby on Via del Lavatore
• Food: Cafés and restaurants surround the square
• Nearby: Pantheon, Spanish Steps, Piazza Venezia, Vicus Caprarius
• Official website: Trevi Fountain Guide – Roma Experience