"THE
HISTORY"
BARCACCIA
FOUNTAIN AND THE SQUARE |
PIAZZA
DI SPAGNA: FOUNTAIN AND SPANISH STEPS |
Piazza
di Spagna has been the most famous meeting spot of Rome since
XVIII century. Here artists of every sort, dancers and travellers
used to come to breath the fascinating atmosphere of the square
and spanish steps. Nothing changes as Piazza di Spagna and Spanish
Steps are the most known spots of Rome today as well. The square
took its name from the Spanish Embassy that once had its seat
here. The beautiful Barcaccia fountain was projected by Gian Lorenzo
Bernini and ordered by Barberini family. The famous sculptor was
conditioned in his idea by the absence of a strong water pressure
of the aqueduct that obliged Bernini to think to a sinking boat
avoiding water games. The Trinità dei Monti Church arises
on the top of the Spanish Steps creating a vertical sensation
to the visitor strongly put in evidence by the presence of a Roman
obelisk before the church. Till the '700 the church was linked
to the square only through two small paths and the french project
of the steps was strongly opposed by the Vatican for the simple
fact that a Luigi XIV estatue should have been placed on the top
of the stair. The famous Spanish Steps was projected later in
1720 by architect Francesco de Sanctis who created a strong suggestion
through a succession of terraces and steps. Near tto the square
it's possible to find many interesting points such as the Caffè
Greco used to be the meeting spot for artist and poets (Byron,
Keats, Goethe), the famous via Condotti where all most famous
fashion shops are located, the Babington's Tea Room opened since
1896. A visity to the Keats and Shelley Memorial House is a must
for those who enjoyed literature. |
TRINITA'
DEI MONTI CHURCH |
BARCACCIA
FOUNTAIN |
"TRINITÀ
DEI MONTI CHURCH"
Spanish
Steps lead to Trinità dei Monti Churh consecrated in 1585
but already finished in 1519. Later was projected by Giacomo della
Porta the characteristical facade with two bell's tower and its
clear vertical suggestion revealing the Gothic influence on all
the project. Before the church there's a Roman obelisk that is
an antique Roman copy of the egiptian obelisk placed in Piazza
del Popolo. The terrace of the church offers one of the most fascinating
panorama in the entire Rome. The church, damaged many times during
its history, is worthy of visiting at least for some Daniele da
Volterra's frescoes on the lateral chapels. The influence of Michelagelo,
who was his master, is clear.
Opening hours: Trinità
dei Monti Church is open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. |