The Trevi Fountain is a symbol of Rome and visiting it is a must on any trip to the Italian capital. Positioned at the junction of three roads, it is one of the oldest water fountains in the city and is visited by millions of tourists every year – the most famous of which being Anita Ekberg in Federico Fellini’s cult classic ‘La Doolce Vita’. There’s a tradition of throwing coins into the fountain, hoping that your wish will come true. But there is another way that tourists can experience the fountain – by going under it!
Going under Trevi Fountain is a unique experience, to say the least. It’s a privilege only offered to divers with license and permission from the municipality. It’s a one-of-a-kind activity that tourists can only enjoy outside the fountain and it gives them an insight into the architectural history of the area. The most popular spot to enter the fountain is at the base of the stone ramp, where four steps lead down into the murky waters below. But before anyone takes the plunge, there are some important safety protocols to follow.
Before going under the fountain, it’s important to remember that Trevi is located in an old and fragile city. Therefore, divers must take extra care not to damage any of the frescoes, statues or bas reliefs that adorn the walls. High-tech underwater cameras will help record any in-depth exploration, with the permission of local authorities. Furthermore, considering the heavy traffic of tourists above the waters, it’s necessary to make sure the diver is equipped with proper communications devices to be used in case of emergency.
Once the dive is ready to begin, it is highly advised to start from the base of the stone steps and then progress from there. It is here that divers will find a myriad of archaeological artifacts – from ancient marble sculptures to mediaeval coins – that can transport them back in time. Further along the underwater tunnel, there are a few bright patches that bring to life the vibrant colors of the seabed thanks to the underwater lighting.
When the dive is over, divers can resurface to enjoy a unique view of the city over the waters of the fountain. A unique experience that won’t be forgotten in a hurry. It’s not the easiest activity, but with a bit of common sense and safety measures, it could be one of the most unforgettable moments in Rome.
What type of Equipment is Needed?
One of the most important aspects of going under the fountain is having the right equipment. For starters, a mask, fins and wetsuit are necessary as most of the activity will take place underwater. A buoyancy control device is also a must, as the water can be deep in some places. To avoid currents and visibility issues, an underwater navigation tool is also advised. However, for some areas, a torch might be required for extra visibility.
It is also essential to have a fully qualified and experienced instructor for the dive, as the depths can range from about 3 to 8 metres. Divers must also bear in mind that the Fountain is located within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so special attention must be paid to archaeological remains. Finally, it’s important to make sure that mobile phones and communication devices are switched on and properly charged.
Other Steps to Take Before Going Under the Fountain
To make sure the dive goes safely and smoothly, divers must remember to check their equipment beforehand and make sure everything is in working order and properly cleaned. All the seals and straps must be in good condition. Moreover, the wetsuit must fit properly and be the correct thickness for the temperature of the water. If a diver is bringing any electronic devices along, they must check that the batteries are fully charged.
Prior to the dive, it’s important to check weather conditions, wave height and visibility. This can be done by checking online resources and local advisories. Furthermore, it is essential to research any special rules in place, as well as looking into any safety warnings that might be specific to that area.
What to do After Going Under the Fountain
A dive under the Trevi Fountain is an incredible experience. After exiting the waters, divers should take note of anything they didn’t see during their dive and remember to stay aware of their surroundings. Additionally, divers should make sure to keep an eye out for any potential dangers that might appear. It is also essential to remember to check for any fish or plant life that may be living in the fountain.
Finally, divers should take plenty of pictures – either from above the water or from underwater – to remind them of the wonderful experience. As for any coins that the diver may have seen, these shall remain under the water for the next lucky diver who takes the plunge!
What Challenges Can be Encountered?
Going under the Trevi Fountain is an experience unlike any other. It can be both rewarding and exciting, but it can also be quite challenging as there are many risks involved. The main challenge will be visibility due to the demand and pollution in the city. Furthermore, the water can be quite murky and it can be difficult to tell where the divers are in relation to the bottom of the fountain. This can result in divers getting disoriented and lost.
The depths of the fountain can also be quite unpredictable, with some areas being too shallow while others can be quite deep. This unpredictability can also be a significant challenge – especially in murky water – as it can be easy to lose track of one’s bearings. Additionally, because of the popularity of the fountain, there can be a large number of visitors swimming around the base of the fountain, posing a potential risk for divers.
What are the Benefits of Going Under the Fountain?
Even considering the challenges, going under the Trevi Fountain is well worth the effort as it offers a unique experience to divers. Visiting the fountain is an activity that is open to anyone looking to visit Italy’s capital and is a great way to explore the history and beauty of the place. It can also provide an amazing opportunity to take in the sights at a leisurely pace.
By going underwater, divers can admire the ancient structures in a different way and observe their real beauty. The sculptures, water spouts and bas-reliefs that adorn the fountain also offer a stunning view, one that can only be experienced from the depths of its waters. Going to such depths has its own set of benefits – for example, divers can appreciate the architecture of the fountain from an entirely different perspective.
What Kinds of Life Can be Found Under the Fountain?
The Trevi Fountain’s waters are teeming with wildlife, making it a great place for wildlife-lovers to explore. It is home to various types of fish and aquatic plants, both local and exotic, including the beautiful grouper and sea squirt. Aquatic mammals and reptiles can also be found in the area, such as the river otter, the European eel and the Italian mingo crab.
In addition, the Trevi Fountain also hosts an abundance of interesting invertebrates such as polychaetes, sea cucumbers and mussels, as well as larger animals like the cormorants, gannets and kingfishers. Moreover, visitors to the area may also observe dolphins, monk seals and turtles, all of which are a common sight within the vicinity of the fountain.
What Else Should Divers Keep in Mind?
Visiting the Trevi Fountain might be an attractive prospect and a great opportunity for divers, but it’s important to remember that the area can be dangerous if certain safety precautions are not taken. Divers should make sure to always stay with their group and swim in the right direction. The instructors must also be aware of any potential hazards, such as currents and visibility issues, to ensure the safety of all divers.
Additionally, divers should make sure to stick to their dive plan and the dive limits set by the instructor. They must remember to remain calm at all times and signal to the instructor whenever they have any queries or concerns. Finally, divers must signal quickly to the surface if anything happens and always remember to stay safe.
