Trevi Fountain: The Theatrical Oceanus and Coin Legend
Why is it significant?
Turn the corner of the narrow alley and pause as the thunder of crashing water fills the plaza. Step down the curved travertine steps of the Trevi Fountain and gaze upon Nicola Salvi's colossal masterpiece, stretching twenty meters wide across the facade of the Palazzo Poli.
Key Facts
| Place | Trevi Fountain: The Theatrical Oceanus and Coin Legend |
|---|---|
| Address | Piazza di Trevi, 00187 Roma |
| Geo Coordinates | 41.90090, 12.48330 |
| Part of Walk | Baroque Rome: The Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Bernini's Waters |
| Generated | Generated |
Turn the corner of the narrow alley and pause as the thunder of crashing water fills the plaza. Step down the curved travertine steps of the Trevi Fountain and gaze upon Nicola Salvi's colossal masterpiece, stretching twenty meters wide across the facade of the Palazzo Poli. In the center, Oceanus, god of all waters, rides a shell-shaped chariot pulled by two winged sea horses guided by tritons.
Look at the two horses: one is wild and rearing furiously, representing the violent tempest of the sea, while the other is calm and obedient, symbolizing the peaceful ocean. The fountain is fed by the Acqua Vergine, an ancient Roman aqueduct functioning continuously since nineteen BC, when thirsty Roman soldiers were guided to a pure spring by a young maiden, an event depicted in the bas-relief above.
Stand with your back to the pool and toss a coin with your right hand over your left shoulder into the water: Roman legend guarantees that one coin ensures your return to Rome, a second brings a new romance, and a third promises marriage. Every day, over three thousand euros in coins are swept from the basin and donated to the Catholic charity Caritas to feed Rome's poor.
Follow the cobbled streets north toward the Spanish Steps.