History of Trevi Fountain

The history of Trevi Fountain dates back to ancient Roman times when the Aqua Virgo, a natural spring that supplied water to the city, was situated in the area. The spring was named after a young girl who guided Roman soldiers to its location during a drought. Emperor Augustus restored the Aqua Virgo in 19 BC, and it remained functional until the decline of the Roman Empire. The district of Trevi derived its name from the convergence of three roads at the Aqua Virgo site, becoming a significant hub of commerce and culture in the Middle Ages.

During the Renaissance and Baroque periods, the Trevi Fountain fell into disrepair and was used as a dumping ground for garbage. It was not until the 18th century that Pope Clement XII decided to rebuild the fountain and turn it into the magnificent work of art that we see today. The pope held a competition to design the new fountain, and the winning design was submitted by the architect Nicola Salvi. Salvi's design featured a central figure of Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, flanked by two tritons. The fountain was completed in 1762, long after Salvi's death, by the sculptor Pietro Bracci. Today, the Trevi Fountain is one of the most famous and beloved fountains in the world, and it continues to be an iconic symbol of Rome's rich history and cultural heritage.

Over the years, the Trevi Fountain has undergone various restoration efforts aimed at preserving its beauty and historical significance. In 1989, a significant restoration project, sponsored by the Italian fashion house Fendi, took two years to complete. During this process, the fountain was drained and thoroughly cleaned, while the sculptures received meticulous repairs and restoration. Subsequently, in 2014, another restoration took place, with the addition of new LED lighting that illuminates the fountain at night. This particular restoration was generously funded by the Italian luxury jewelry brand Bulgari.

Today, the Trevi Fountain remains a prominent tourist attraction, filling the people of Rome with pride and serving as a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage and artistic legacy. Its history showcases the dedication of preserving its grandeur, ensuring that future generations can continue to marvel at its magnificence.