Background
The Trevi Fountain is a world-famous monument located in Rome, Italy. The fountain is the largest and oldest Roman fountain, and has been featured in movies and is one of the most popular attractions in Rome. The fountain was designed in 1762 by Italian architect and sculptor Nicola Salvi, although the fountain has undergone many additions and modifications since then. Salvi was commissioned to build the fountain in 1732 by Pope Clemente XII, and the fountain was inspired by the Baroque architecture of the time.
Design Features of the Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is one of the most unique and extravagant architectural works of the Baroque period. It is decorated with figures of gods, goddesses, monsters, tritons, and cherubs, and is made from travertine stone. It stands 85 feet high and is 65 feet wide, making it one of the largest fountains in Rome. The fountain is situated at the junction of three roads, which is the origin of its name (“tre vie” means “three roads” in Italian).
The focal point of the fountain is the figure of Neptune, the god of the sea, driving a shell-shaped chariot and being pulled by two horses. His chariot is surrounded by allegorical figures of Abundance and Health. There is also a smaller figure of Salubrity, a nymph, reclining in the corner of the fountain. Above the figures, the centerpiece of the fountain is a tall finial topped by a large elephant and a conch shell.
History
The Trevi Fountain has a long, fascinating history. It is one of the oldest fountains in Rome, and its construction was completed in 1762. The original fountain was designed by Salvi, although the design has been modified and added to a number of times over the centuries. In 1817, the fountain was restored and modified by Pope Pius VII, and it was restored again in 1998 by the Italian Government and UNESCO.
The fountain has been featured prominently in several movies, including Federico Fellini’s La Dolce Vita in 1960. The fountain is a popular destination for visitors to Rome and is the site of many romantic proposals. There is a popular legend that throwing a coin into the fountain will bring luck and ensures a return to Rome.
Significance of the Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is a monumental work of architecture and sculpture that has come to symbolize the spirit of Rome. It stands as a testament to the power of art and architecture and is an enduring symbol of Italian culture. The fountain is one of the most visited monuments in Rome and is a popular destination for tourists from all around the world.
Controversy Surrounding the Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain has become a controversial landmark in recent years. The fountain has become a symbol of over-tourism and many have questioned the impact of so many tourists on the fountain and its environment. Furthermore, there are long-standing debates over the conservation and restoration of the fountain, and who should ultimately be responsible for its upkeep.
Environmental Impact
The Trevi Fountain is a major tourist attraction, and attracts up to 60,000 visitors a day. As a result, there is an increasing number of concerns about the impact of these visitors on the environment. Sewage and trash, which can contain dangerous pollutants, have become a major problem in the area surrounding the fountain. Furthermore, acidic rainwater has caused severe damage to the Travertine stone, leading to the need for regular maintenance and repairs.
In response to these issues, the local government has taken steps to protect the fountain. In 2017, the city council passed a motion to reduce the influx of tourists by introducing a ticket entrance fee. This fees will fund conservation efforts and limit the number of visitors to the fountain.
Conclusion
The Trevi Fountain is an iconic monument that has come to symbolize the city of Rome. The fountain was designed by Italian sculptor Nicolo Salvi in 1762 and has undergone numerous modifications since then. Despite its popularity, the fountain has become a point of contention due to its environmental impact. In response to this, the city council has taken steps to limit the number of visitors by introducing an entrance fee, which will help fund conservation efforts.
