Water supply
Trevi Fountain is one of the most famous fountains in the world. It is located in Rome, Italy and its water is supplied from a natural source. The fountain’s water source is the Aqua Virgo, an ancient aqueduct built in 19 BC. The aqueduct follows the route of the Virgin aqueduct, which was built following the path of a Roman aqueduct by Pope Nicholas V. The Aqua Virgo or the Aqua Vergine, as it is commonly known, originates from the Salone Springs, located in the laziness hills 20 km south of Rome. From there, it is redirected to the city through many underground tunnels, tunneled above ground. From the fountain’s main tank, water is distributed to other tanks located in the city of Rome such as the Piazza Navona, the Bocca della Verità and the Monumento ai Caduti.
Architecture
Trevi Fountain is a masterpiece of Roman architecture that has been a source of inspiration for many artists throughout the centuries. Built in the early 18th century, the fountain was designed by Italian architect Nicola Salvi, and was later completed by Pietro Bracci. The fountain is the largest Baroque fountain in Rome, measuring 85 feet in height and 55 feet in width. It is composed of several sculptures, depicting different scenes from mythology and Biblical stories. The most iconic figure is Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, which stands as the central figure of the fountain. Other statues and figures include Oceanus and Abundance, two river gods that are located at the two sides of Neptune, as well as two ancient goddesses: Salustia and Triton.
Mechanical underpinnings
Trevi Fountain is not only visually stunning, but mechanically impressive as well. Despite its age, the fountain is still able to bring to life a beautiful display of water, thanks to its complex pumping system. The fountain is driven by an underground mechanical system, composed of a series of pumps, tanks and a network of pipes that allow water to flow through different levels of the fountain basins. This system is powered by electric and pneumatic motors, which pull the water from the Aqua Vergine aqueduct and distribute it to the various tanks and basins of the fountain. In addition, the fountain also has a reservoir, which stores excess water, and a water filter system that cleans water as it passes through the pipes.
Lighting
Trevi Fountain, in addition to its impressive water display, is also illuminated with an impressive lighting system at night. The fountain is lit up with a set of 288 lights that are positioned in such a way, as to highlight the different sculptures and figures of the fountain. In this way, the fountain’s beauty is highlighted during night time and gives the illusion of motion in the water. The lights can be adjusted for different occasions and events that take place in the town.
Maintenance
The fountain is regularly maintained by a team of engineers and technicians who are in charge of maintaining the complex mechanical and electrical systems of the fountain. This includes regular cleaning of the fountain, as well as maintenance of the pumps, motors and pipes. The fountain is also inspected annually, to ensure that it is safe and properly functioning.
Public access
The fountain is open to the public, and visitors can enjoy its majestic beauty anytime throughout the day. However, it is important to note that the fountain is also a popular spot for tourists and many visitors throw coins into the fountain as a symbol of good luck. In recent years, this practice has become very popular, and to help protect the fountain, the city of Rome has installed cameras that monitor visitors and prevent them from damaging the fountain.
Cultural significance
In addition to its mechanical and architectural significance, Trevi Fountain is also very important in the culture of Rome. The fountain is often the focal point during festivals and celebrations, and the scene of many historical and cinematic events. In particular, it has been featured in numerous films and is perhaps most famously seen in the film La Dolce Vita. The film immortalized the beauty of the fountain, and it continues to attract millions of visitors each year.
Role in urban tourism
Trevi Fountain is one of the most iconic landmarks of Rome and holds a very important role in urban tourism. The fountain is a major tourist attraction and an integral part of the fabric of Rome’s culture and history. Its majestic beauty and lively atmosphere makes it an ideal spot to visit, and simply enjoy the city. In addition, the fountain is a popular spot for locals, and many of them spend their afternoons relaxing by the fountain and people watching.
The future of the fountain
Trevi Fountain is an important landmark of Rome’s history and culture, and it has the potential to remain such for centuries to come. The fountain is already undergoing a major renovation project that will ensure its longevity, and authorities in the city of Rome are constantly exploring ways in which the fountain can be better preserved and maintained. With proper care and maintenance, the fountain will continue to be a source of joy and awe to its visitors for generations to come.
Benefits of the fountain
Trevi Fountain is an important part of the city of Rome, not only for its cultural significance, but also for its benefits to its visitors. The beauty of the fountain and its surrounding area provides visitors with an unparalleled source of joy and relaxation, and its majestic ambience make it the perfect spot for a romantic evening. Furthermore, the fountain is also a source of refreshment for its visitors, as the waters of the fountain are cool and refreshing.
Environmental impact
In recent years, the fountain has also become a symbol of sustainability, as authorities in the city of Rome have taken measures to reduce the environmental impact that the fountain has on the city. One of the biggest changes is the installation of solar panels and a rainwater collection system that are used to power some of the pumps of the fountain and reduce the need for electricity. In addition, the fountain is connected to a wastewater treatment plant and all wastewater is treated before it is released into the environment.
Impact in the local economy
The fountain is also very important for the local economy, as it attracts millions of tourists each year. In addition, the fountain is also a major source of income for the city of Rome, as it generates significant tax revenues and creates countless jobs related to its maintenance and tourism. As such, Trevi Fountain is an essential part of the local economy, and its maintenance and preservation are of utmost importance for the city.
