Position and Accessibility of The Trevi Fountain and Colosseum
The Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum are two of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, dominating the city’s skyline and providing a captivating tourist experience. But how close or far apart are these two iconic structures?
Set in the center of Rome’s historical center, the Trevi Fountain is a Baroque fountain in the Trevi district of Rome. According to a local Roman guide, Diego Bruzzone, the Fountain is just over 300 metres from the Pantheon. This short distance makes it very accessible for tourists who are in search for a place to take stunning photographs of the capital.
Conversely, the Colosseum lies at the opposite side of Rome – an impressive oval amphitheater built 2000 years ago and the largest surviving ancient structure of the city. Although it stands nearly three kilometers away from the Trevi Fountain, it is still one of the easiest attractions to locate and can be seen from many different areas around the city. It is close to other major sites such as the Domus Aurea and the Arch of Constantine.
History and Significance of The Trevi Fountain and Colosseum
The Trevi Fountain was designed by Nicola Salvi between 1732 and 1762. It is said to symbolize the Roman God of the sea Neptune, with the powerful waters representing his power. While there are many statues found in the fountain, the center depicts Neptune himself riding inside a chariot pulled by two horses.
The Colosseum on the other hand is one of the most significant monuments in the world, being seen as a symbol of the Roman Empire’s power and strength. It was built as a place for gladiator fights, games and public events as a way for Roman authorities to keep the population in check. About 70,000 people used to attend its events to observe the acts going on inside the amphitheatre.
Construction of the Trevi Fountain and Colosseum
The Trevi Fountain is both a masterpiece of art and engineering, having remained unchanged since its creation. It consists of different sculptures and basins of different heights and sizes, providing viewers with a unique experience. The most eye-catching shape on the Fountain is the main basin, which is triangular and oval in shape. It is also made of two separate tiers of water, creating a wonderful cascade down its walls.
The Colosseum on the other hand boasted of an extremely complex structure for its time, with tall travertine walls, four levels and several chambers within. It has the ability to host up to 80,000 spectators at the same time, a fact which the ancient Romans would take advantage of during their games and events.
Sightseeing Tips for Tourists Visiting The Trevi Fountain and Colosseum
When visiting the Trevi Fountain, tourists are advised to take their time, to take photographs and absorb themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the place. Another word of tip would be to bring coins to toss in the fountain, as it is a popular tradition amongst tourists.
Meanwhile, when visiting the Colosseum, one is advised to explore the area thoroughly. This includes going to the top tier, walking inside the amphitheatre, and visiting the various galleries and museums in the vicinity. Tourists can also explore the inner corridors and chambers and even do a self-guided tour of the ruins.
Costs and Benefits of Visiting The Trevi Fountain and Colosseum
The costs of visiting the Trevi Fountain are minimal, with the only charge of admission being the coins used to toss in the waters of the fountain. This is a price many tourists would consider to be worth the memorable experience of getting to visit a piece of Roman history.
On the other hand, the Colosseum requires a much higher admission fee, with prices ranging from €13 to €14 depending on the season. But the cost of admission comes with great benefits, such as the ability to explore Rome’s history and its many other attractions, and is thus more than worth it.
Maintenance and Conservation of The Trevi Fountain and Colosseum
To ensure that the Trevi Fountain and Colosseum remain in top condition, both sites receive significant amounts of maintenance. The Trevi Fountain, for example, is regularly cleaned. Furthermore, a major restoration project was conducted in the 2000s to ensure its longevity and repair damages caused by injuries and vandalism.
The Colosseum, on the other hand, has been undergoing a decade-long restoration project. With over €18 million in funding from the Italian government, experts have been working hard to restore and conserve the crumbling walls of the amphitheatre. They have been reconstructing walls and filling in cracks, and also preserving the remaining carved statues and engravings.
Tourist Spending in The Trevi Fountain and Colosseum
The Trevi Fountain and Colosseum are estimated to bring in more than €25 million a year in ticket sales and visitor spending, making them major tourist attractions. Close to 7 million people visit the Colosseum each year, and the Trevi Fountain is said to be one of the most visited sites in Rome.
Further, the Trevi Fountain is also home to a range of tourist-oriented businesses and activities. From street artists to cafes, there are plenty of opportunities for tourists to spend time in the area and contribute to its local economy. This is especially true during high-traffic tourist seasons, when hundreds of people flock to the fountain to take photos, enjoy a quick drink or eat a snack.
Cultural Perception of The Trevi Fountain and Colosseum
The Trevi Fountain and Colosseum are seen as two of the most iconic landmarks in Italy, and have even been featured in several movies and TV shows. From Audrey Hepburn’s “Roman Holiday” to HBO’s “The Young Pope”, these two sites have been iconic symbols of Italy’s cultural heritage.
Furthermore, both sites are also seen as symbols of Italy’s great engineering feats. From the Trevi Fountain’s intricate design to the Colosseum’s imposing structure, these two sites are reminders that the Romans were indeed capable of feats that are difficult to replicate.
Artistic Influence of The Trevi Fountain and Colosseum
The Trevi Fountain and Colosseum also have had a profound influence on artists over the centuries. From painters to sculptors, the two sites have inspired some of the most beautiful works of art in the world. Artists have been captivated by the sublime beauty of the Trevi Fountain and the grandeur of the Colosseum for centuries, a testament to the power of these two landmarks.
The world-renowned British sculptor, Anthony Gormley, is one of the many artists who have taken inspiration from the Trevi Fountain, creating a grand bronze fountain sculpture named “The Idol”. Meanwhile, the Colosseum has also been subject to ongoing artistic projects, including a series of spectacular light shows that only serve to add to the ancient structure’s beauty.
Environmental Impact of The Trevi Fountain and Colosseum
The Trevi Fountain and Colosseum are also subject to the ongoing threat of pollution and environmental damage. Water pollution is a major problem in the Trevi Fountain, as the sewage system in Rome is not always able to keep up with its demand.
The Colosseum has also seen significant environmental damage in recent decades, with the city’s air pollution having a severe effect on the ancient structure. This is why Rome’s responsible local authorities continue to take steps to ensure that these iconic monuments remain as lasting symbols of the city’s long and distinguished history.
Conclusion
The Trevi Fountain and Colosseum are two of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, and have long been the subjects of admiration and awe. Bursting with history and culture, the two landmarks have captivated millions of tourists and locals alike throughout the centuries. With its close proximity to each other and its wealth of iconic attractions, the two monuments are most certainly worth a visit to experience the beauty and elegance of Rome’s most prized sites.
