Trevi Fountain

The Fontana di Trevi, known in English as Trevi Fountain, rises against Palazzo Poli in Rome as a Baroque landmark. Water moves across rocks, plants and sculpted figures. It marks the terminus of the ancient Aqua Virgo aqueduct, which remains in use. Nicola Salvi designed the present eighteenth-century composition for the fountain. At the centre, Oceanus rides a shell-shaped chariot while two Tritons lead horses with opposing temperaments. One horse appears calm and obedient beside Oceanus. The other horse shows restless strength, creating a sculptural contrast between the sea’s calm and its force. Reliefs on the façade recall the aqueduct’s origin. Side niches contain allegorical figures for health and abundance, while the water supplies continuous movement beneath the Palazzo Poli façade. To the right stands Fontana degli Innamorati, a small rectangular basin with two water spouts. The coin toss connects the fountain with traditions of return, love and marriage. Federico Fellini placed the fountain in La dolce vita. The Baroque façade, ancient aqueduct, moving water and stone figures give the landmark several connected stories.