The Spanish Steps (Italian: La scalinata di Spagna) are a popular meeting place in Rome and considered the most beautiful in Europe.

The idea to build a staircase that would connect the foot of Pincho Hill with its top came from the French diplomat Etienne Geffier. The fact is that at the foot of the hill there was the Piazza di Spagna with the representation of the Spanish kings, and at the top of the hill was the Church of Trinita dei Monti, which was a stronghold of the French monarchs in Rome. The wide staircase was meant to symbolize the strong relationship between France and Spain.

In 1717 a competition was held for best project staircase, which was won by the architects Alessandro Specchi and Francesco de Sanctis. Construction began in 1723 and was financed by funds left in Geffier's will. The grand opening of the Spanish Steps took place in 1725 with the participation of Pope Benedict XIII.

The staircase is made in the Baroque style and is a cascade of 138 stone steps carved from travertine.

Restoration

Over the course of many years of history, the steps have been updated several times. The latest restoration of the staircase, costing $1.5 million, was financed by the fashion house Bulgari. The Spanish Steps are part of its history as they connect Via Sistina, where Sotirio Bulgari opened his first store in 1884. Also, the start of restoration work (2014) coincided with the 130th anniversary of Bulgari. The grand opening of the renovated Spanish Steps took place on September 21, 2016.

Spanish Steps today

The Spanish Steps have become a favorite place for tourists, as well as a concentration of street performers, musicians, magicians and painters. There is a special romantic atmosphere here - you can simply sit on the steps and enjoy the beautiful views of Piazza di Spagna and the adjacent Via dei Condotti - the most luxurious shopping street in Rome. Via Condotti is home to such famous fashion houses as Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Bulgari, Valentino, Dior and others.

Every year during winter holidays Christmas performances are staged along the spans of the Spanish Steps. And in spring, the steps are beautifully decorated with pink azaleas and petunias.

1. The Spanish Steps is one of the TOP 5 free attractions in Rome.

2. The steps of the famous staircase often serve as the venue for fashion shows with the participation of the best couturiers.

3. The first McDonalds restaurant in Italy opened on the Spanish Steps in March 1986.

4. On the right at the foot of the stairs is the house museum romantic poet John Keats.

5. After the release of the film “Roman Holiday” in 1953, the staircase on which the famous scene was filmed became especially popular among Romans and tourists.

Information for visitors

Where is

Address: Piazza di Spagna, 00187 Roma RM, Italy

The Spanish Steps are located in the city center, within walking distance of famous attractions such as the Trevi Fountain, Villa Borghese, .

How to get there

The most convenient way to get there by metro: The nearest station is Spagna (line A) located 100 meters from the Spanish Steps.

Antique buildings, ancient temples and cathedrals, interesting museums and galleries, squares and fountains - in the Italian capital there is a landmark at every step. To have time to explore all these famous places, book at least 3-4 days.

Spanish Steps on the map of Rome

The Spanish Steps (Italian: La scalinata di Spagna) are a popular meeting place in Rome and considered the most beautiful in Europe.

300-year history of the Spanish Steps in Rome

The idea to build a staircase that would connect the foot of Pincho Hill with its top came from the French diplomat Etienne Geffier. The fact is that at the foot of the hill there was the Plaza de España with... " />

A famous Italian landmark of French and Spanish origin, the Spanish Steps in Rome have become a symbol of the confrontation between the French and the Spaniards.

A little history

The construction of the landmark was based on a diplomatic idea and grandiose royal vanity.

It all started with the fact that in the middle of the 16th century, a small plot of land on the top of Pincho Hill went into the possession of France. It was decided to erect the Trinita dei Monti church on this site.(Santissima Trinita dei Monti, i.e. Church of the Trinity on the Mountain). This church was of great importance for those French who were forced to live away from their native land.

A little later, the Spanish authorities bought the land at the foot of the hill for the construction of an embassy palace.

But, despite the fact that the French and Spanish monarchs were related (the French king Louis XIV was married to Maria Teresa, the daughter of the king of Spain), relations between the countries were very far from friendly. Attempts at reconciliation arose from time to time, but common ground was never found.

And one day a certain French diplomat, Etienne Geffier, in his will wished that the two peoples would unite and stop fighting.

And the unification had to happen through the construction of stairs, which would connect the French church and the Spanish square. In order not to be unfounded, Monsieur Geffier supported his words with 20 thousand Italian crowns. The Pope liked the idea of ​​construction.

The project was developed by Giovanni Bernini himself. But construction was not destined to begin, since Cardinal Mazarin himself intervened, who wanted to erect a monument to the French king Louis XIV at the top of the stairs. Even the pedestal for the statue was already cast in the mold. But the Pope considered it almost an insult for the monarch of another country to be honored on the territory of one state, and because of this the project was postponed almost until 1715, the year of Louis’s death.

Two years later, in 1717, it was decided to return to the project, and the Pope announced a competition among architects for the best project. Many famous architects competed for the right to be the first, but won creative union Alessandro Specchi and Francesco di Sanctis.

It took almost 6 years to prepare for construction- Pincho Hill was leveled and strengthened, Spanish Square was being strengthened.

Strengthening work was simply necessary: ​​due to frequent rains, the hill was often washed away, and it could not withstand such a grandiose construction.

Construction began only in 1723. Bernini's original project was taken as a basis, but slightly modified and technically improved. Political awkwardness was also smoothed over. For example, Alessandro Specchi combined the eagle and crown (symbols of the Pope) with the fleur-de-lis of the Bourbon dynasty. Construction was completed in 1725(according to some sources - for 1727) year.

60 years after the official completion of construction, another note was added to the architectural ensemble. Instead of a monument to the French monarch, an imitation of an ancient Egyptian obelisk from a collection of artifacts that belonged to the Roman scientist Sallust was installed at the top of the stairs. It’s called the Obelisk of Sallust.

The staircase has reached our time practically without alterations, but she had to go through several restorations. Time and weather conditions took their toll, and tourists made a significant “contribution” to the destruction of the attraction, spilling drinks on it and smearing chewing gum. The issue of restoration work became especially acute in 2015, when football fans from the Netherlands staged a real pogrom in the center of the historical square, not sparing architectural monuments.

The renovation lasted for 10 months, during which the steps were cleaned and restored, dented steps were straightened, lanterns were cleaned and paving stones were restored.

We will tell you everything about the Palazzo Medici-Riccardi in Florence! What is it famous for? ancient building in the spirit of the Renaissance?

And you will find many photos and descriptions of the famous University of Bologna, as well as several interesting facts about the history of its construction.

Description of the attractions of Rome

Its official name is Scalinata del Trinita dei Monti (stairs leading to the Trinita Church), but its unofficial name has taken root among the people - Spanish. The staircase consists of 138 steps made of travertine. Travertine (Tibur stone) – fine-grained rock, which is a cross between limestone and marble. By the way, many ancient and medieval buildings are made of travertine.

The Spanish Steps themselves are divided into three segments– a central passage and two on the sides. At the very top of the stairs there is an observation deck - it is located in front of Trinity Church, narrow side passages lead to the platform.

La Scalinata has low stone sides in a Baroque style. On these sides you can see a pattern of symbols of papal power and French fleurs-de-lis.

In spring, the staircase is decorated with blooming azaleas: dozens of flowerpots with flowers are displayed along the central flight of the stairs.

Scalinata del Trinita dei Monti today, photo

Scalinata del Trinita dei Monti today is not only its business card and a famous landmark. This place is the venue for fashion shows, theatrical performances, street concerts and fairs.

December, for example, is a traditional time for Christmas pageants. The steps turn into theatrical stage, And creative teams Rome presents its Christmas productions to the audience.

The steps of the staircase also turn into a fashionable catwalk. Famous Italian brands present their new collections here. For example, representatives of the fashion houses Valentino and Dolce&Gabbana spend their “fashion weeks” here every year, and skillful lighting and direction turns the show into an enchanting spectacle.

Creative people also do not ignore the Spanish Steps: Dozens of street musicians and original artists practice here every day. Where else can you see the whole palette of emotions on people's faces? Plus street dancers and magicians, skillfully and dexterously taking out multi-colored scarves and balls from the pockets of surprised tourists...

On ordinary days, you can walk, sit, or even lie on the stairs. The only prohibition established by the authorities of Rome is that you cannot bring food and drinks here with you. The ban has been in effect since the last restoration, and violating it will cost careless tourists a significant fine.

It is impossible to enjoy solitude on La Scalinata - there are always crowds of people there.

If you want to avoid a large influx of visitors while exploring the attraction and take a memorable selfie, then it is better to come here early in the morning. At these hours it is not so crowded here, and with special luck you can take a good shot on the stairs itself or from observation deck upstairs.

Do you know that the wonderful city of Bologna has its own? Read about the legends associated with these ancient buildings on our website.

You will find several photos depicting the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, located in Florence, and many interesting facts about it.

What sights can you see in the famous Syracuse, the most beautiful town on the island of Sicily? We'll tell you the details here: .

The Spanish Steps in Rome are one of the calling cards of the city, a very popular place among tourists and city residents. This extraordinary baroque staircase, considered the most beautiful in Europe, connects the Spanish square with the top of the Pincio hill, where the famous Trinita dei Monti temple is located.

It is always very noisy and crowded here, and from the hill there is a stunning view of the city.

Prerequisites for creation

The Spanish Steps were originally intended to serve as a “bridge” to improve relations between the Spanish and French monarchies.

In the 16th century in Rome, on the orders of Louis XII, the Trinita dei Monti church was built on the Pincio hill, which became a stronghold of the French monarchy in Italy for the French forced to live in a foreign land. And in 1620, in Rome, at the foot of the Pincio hill, the Spanish authorities bought the land for the construction of an embassy palace in Italy.

In 1660, Spain and France, who were in constant confrontation, decided to reconcile and conclude a marriage dynastic union between Louis XIV and Marie Teresa. In an attempt to smooth relations between countries, French ambassador Etienne Geffier decides to spend the lion's share of his fortune (20,000 crowns) on the construction of a staircase that would connect the Spanish square, which is important for the Spaniards, with the French church of Trinita dei Monti.

The authorities liked this idea, and they attracted them to the grandiose project. famous architect Bernini, but the Spanish steps were not destined to appear in Rome in the 17th century. The fact is that Cardinal Mazarin wanted to crown the building with a monument to Louis XIV. The Pope considered this an insult and vetoed the construction, and Etienne Geffier, who sponsored the project, never had time to admire the most beautiful staircase, built after his death.

Construction of the Spanish Steps in Rome

Even after the marriage between Louis XIV and the Infanta, Spain and France fought more than once, and half a century later, the idea of ​​​​building a “bridge” between the symbols of these countries in Rome again became relevant. In 1717, a competition was held among architects to build the Spanish Steps. It was won by Alessandro Specchi and Francesco de Sanctis, who took Bernini's design as a basis.

Before the construction of the most beautiful staircase in the world, which subsequently conquered all of Europe, it took a lot of time to strengthen the Pincio Hill and the Spanish Square. In 1723 everything preparatory work were carried out, and the architects began to implement their project.

They divided the staircase of 138 travertine steps into three segments - a wide central one and two narrower ones on the sides, and installed an observation deck at the very top of the hill.

According to the architects' idea, the side parts of the Spanish staircase in the Baroque style were decorated with French and Italian symbols of power - the papal eagle with a crown and the French coat of arms.

Spanish Steps today

These days, the Spanish Steps are a popular tourist attraction and meeting place for couples and friends. In the 90s it was restored for the first time since its founding, but nothing has changed significantly.

In the spring, the Spanish Steps are decorated with vases of flowers, and in the winter - Christmas decorations and performances.

I wouldn't call it the most beautiful staircase in Europe. Yes, it is quite impressive, but the crowds of tourists and pestering sellers spoil the whole picture. The only pleasing thing is the view from the observation deck. We arrived there at sunset, and Rome looked like a magical city straight out of the pages of an ancient fairy tale.

Spanish steps in culture and art

The Spanish Steps have appeared in many films and paintings, the most famous of which is “Roman Holiday” with Audrey Hepburn in 1953, where her heroine ate ice cream while sitting on the travertine steps.

The Spanish Steps in Rome are used for fashion shows by such famous couturiers as Valentino and Dolce & Gabbana, whose boutiques are located nearby in Piazza di Spagna. On high fashion days, the entrance to the staircase is limited and it is covered with a satin runner.

What to see next to the Spanish Steps in Rome?

Church of Trinita dei Monti (

In the church of Trinita dei Monti there is a sculpture of the Descent from the Cross, created by Daniel de Volterra, a student of Michelangelo. Unfortunately, we were not able to get inside - the temple was already closed. And its facade was just restored - sadness.

Fountain "Barcaccia" ( Barcaccia)

This elegant fountain was installed on the Piazza di Spagna back in the 17th century by the sculptor Bernini. It is based on the legend of a fishing boat thrown out by the flooded waters of the Tiber.

How to get to the Spanish Steps?

Finding the Spanish Steps is quite easy - follow the map to Piazza di Spagna or take the metro to Spagna station. If you want to stay in this area, then you should check it out.

• Rome area: Campo Marzio
• Address: 00187, Rome, Piazza di Spagna, Staircase to Trinita dei Monti
• Nearest metro: Spagna (line A)

The area around the Spanish Steps is considered the most fashionable in Rome. Boutiques are located here famous brands Dolce & Gabbana, Gucchi, etc., luxury hotels and restaurants.

When it comes to the main attractions of the Eternal City, many will remember the Capitoline Hill on which Rome arose, the symbol of Italy - the Colosseum, destroyed and other famous historical monuments. And not everyone, unfortunately, will celebrate the most popular meeting place local residents, so I would like to tell you more about architectural structure, considered a real curiosity.

French Church in Rome

The name of this historical masterpiece is not a mistake in Rome tourist guides, as many may think. And this is by no means a Spanish-style staircase, although the centuries-old history of the Italian landmark is closely connected with the country of flamenco and bullfighting.

A man-made work, considered one of the most beautiful places in Europe, has long been a source of inspiration for world photographers, artists, and filmmakers.

The story of this staircase that ends Spanish Square and rising to the ancient church of Trinita dei Monti, deserves a separate discussion.

By agreement between the French king and the Pope at the end of the 15th century, a small plot of land on Pincio Hill in Rome was given over for the construction of a temple. Almost a hundred years later, Spain buys a plot of land next to Trinita dei Monti to build its embassy there.

The Spanish Steps as a symbol of peace between powers

States that have been walking towards peace for a long time decide to build a ladder that will connect the symbols different countries to actually show Europe how strong the diplomatic ties between them are. In honor of this significant event the French ambassador allocates money for the construction, wanting to please his king, and Cardinal Mazarin decides to decorate the top of the majestic structure with a huge sculpture of himself Louis XIV.

True, not everything went so smoothly, because the case took place in Italy, and the Pope was very indignant upon learning of the intention to install an inappropriate statue of a foreign ruler. And the grandiose construction project was frozen.

Competition for the best project

In 1717, almost 60 years later, a competition was announced among architects for the best design of a wide staircase, which perfectly demonstrates the stability of strong relations between powerful powers. Spain and France could not agree in any way on what style the future building would be built. historical monument. It is known that negotiations were held for six years, until last word The Pope did not say, placing the construction in the hands of the unknown architect Francesco de Sanctis.

Two-year construction

Since 1723, construction of a monumental staircase in the Baroque style has been underway. The place where the luxurious structure was erected was pre-fortified, as they were afraid that the ground might not be able to support the powerful structure.

After 2 years, the most beautiful Spanish Steps in Rome opened to the eyes of amazed residents, which at first bore the name of the nearby church - Trinita dei Monti. Later, the architectural monument is given the name by which everyone now knows it - Scalinata Spagna.

Description of a majestic architectural masterpiece

The Spanish Steps, the architect of which nevertheless refused to install a sculpture of Louis, nevertheless combined heraldic (lilies) and Italian (crowns and eagles - attributes of the Pope) in its decoration.

One hundred thirty-eight steps made of travertine - a natural stone that combines the properties of marble and limestone - are not the same in size throughout the entire path. At first glance it seems that they are easy to overcome, but this impression is very deceptive. Climbing narrowing and widening steps is very difficult even for healthy person, and if you consider that in summer the temperature rises to 40 degrees, you can imagine how difficult the path to the top is.

The Spanish Steps, whose amazing design resembles the open wings of a butterfly, is divided into three segments. At the top of the hill there is a spacious platform from which a magnificent view of Roman sights opens.

Barcaccia Fountain (Barkas)

At the foot there is a cozy fountain, built even before the construction of the famous staircase and depicting a sinking boat. According to ancient legends, it was here that a submerged longboat was found in the square after a flood. The area is always crowded, and there is a myth among tourists that it is here that the most tired traveler is charged with energy and strength from the murmuring water.

Spanish Steps: our days

The popular place, which amazes not only tourists with its beauty and grandeur, but also art experts, has been making dates business meetings. A favorite corner for memorable photographs, it attracts noisy youth and creative parties, to which the city authorities are quite loyal.

High fashion shows

This place is adored by lovers of high fashion, because it hosts shows of the most famous designers in the world. At the beginning of summer, the Spanish Steps turn into a kind of catwalk, along the uneven steps of which popular models in luxurious outfits carefully parade so as not to fall.

These days, the completely transformed Roman landmark is gathering a huge number of fans. Laser illumination, playing with light and shadow, creates stunning visual effects that will forever remain in the memory of those who were lucky enough to be present here.

Some interesting facts about the attraction

What else should everyone who comes to visit need to know? ancient city admire the amazing structure to which Italians declare their love?

• The Spanish Steps, a photo of which will make everyone freeze with delight, three years ago was officially recognized as the most beautiful according to a survey among Internet users, leaving far behind no less masterpiece creations of human hands.

• In spring and summer, amazing flowers bloom here in huge flowerpots standing right on the steps, and the staircase turns into a real colorful butterfly.

• Next to the stairs is the narrow street of Condotti, where the most expensive brand stores are located. You can stroll here, admiring the glamorous chic, and shopping is recommended in other boutiques.

• As you know, local authorities do not prohibit gathering on the stairs and sitting on the steps. The only thing for which they will impose huge fine- for drinking any drinks and eating food.

• Although many sources indicate that the Spanish Steps have 138 steps, according to some sources there are still fewer of them - 135 or 137. Heated debates sometimes occur on this issue, and every tourist has a chance to count how many there really are.

• It was here that some scenes from “Roman Holiday” with O. Hepburn were filmed, and W. Allen shot the final shots of his film “Roman Adventure”.

• The appearance has not changed for more than three hundred years business card Rome, and only in 1997 the dilapidated steps, destroyed by merciless time, were restored.

Tourists who have visited this amazing place claim that the Spanish Steps are beautiful at any time of the year. The city of Rome is proud of its landmark, rightly considering it a cultural and historical value not only of Italy, but of the whole world. And local guides always advise those who visit the ancient capital for the first time to sit on the ancient steps and enjoy the special atmosphere.

Last modified: June 12, 2018

This place in Rome is surrounded by special romance. Everyone who visits the Eternal City is sure to rush to see with their own eyes and sit at least for a minute on the three-hundred-year-old steps of this masterpiece of architecture, demonstrating all the beauty of the Italian Baroque. The Spanish Steps are the same symbol of the city as or, but this is a special landmark of Rome. Having its own history, marked by ambitious confrontation between the monarchs ruling in past centuries, it was almost not restored until the end of the 20th century, and therefore has been preserved to this day almost in its original form.

Conducted in 1995 and 2015-16 renovation work this majestic world heritage, consisting of a cascade of polished travertine steps directed upward to the Pincio hill.

Spanish Steps in Rome

Why are the steps called Spanish?

Many guidebooks to Rome assure anyone ascending the stairs that they are on the Scalinata di Trinita dei Monti, which is the official name of the famous steps. However, the term Spanish steps leads travelers to a much greater romantic thrill, causing associations associated not only with pleasant memories of Eternal City, but also with some pages of history.

Spanish Steps and Church of St. Trinity

The idea of ​​​​building a staircase belongs to the Frenchman Etienne Goffier, who was far from knowledge of urban construction and architecture, but knew all the intricacies of diplomacy. While in the service of King Louis XIV of France as his plenipotentiary representative in Rome, the diplomat advised the monarch to unite the low-lying part of the base of the hill with the Church of the Holy Trinity located on its top. To understand what prompted such a proposal, we should delve a little deeper into history.

The fact is that the church crowning Pincho Hill, built between 1502 and 1519 by the French king Louis XII, had the titular status of a Christian temple, which affirmed the presence of France on papal territory. Being a stronghold of the royal family of Louis in Rome, the Church of Santa Trinita dei Monti united under its arches numerous French people living far from their homeland.

Church of St. Trinity on the Hill. Rome. 1632 Work by Claude Lorrain (1600 - 1682)

Since 1620, at the foot of the hill, in the palace of Giovanni Monaldeschi, a representative office of the Spanish kingdom settled, which later gave the name to the square in front of it. At that time, the dominant dominance of France in Europe in a negative way affected the relations between the two states involved in constant wars for spheres of influence. Even the marriage of the daughter of the Spanish King Philip IV, Maria Theresa of Austria, with Louis XIV, who suspended Franco - spanish war 1635-1659 only for a short time. But as soon as the Spanish monarch left this world, Louis resumed expansion, declaring part of the Spanish lands in the Netherlands his fiefdom.

The French diplomat Etienne Goffier tried to reduce tension between the states by proposing to his king to unite the representations of both monarchies in Rome with a kindred “ladder of friendship.” Not hoping for a quick implementation of the project, during his lifetime he left a will, which spelled out quite large amount for construction. However, even the powers that be of the three states, inspired by this, could not immediately agree on what this symbol of Franco-Spanish friendship should be. French demands for a hilltop statue of Louis XIV riding a stallion were rejected by the pontiff. He rightly considered that a monument to a foreign king should not decorate Rome. Thus, the wish of the French diplomat was postponed until the death of the monarch, who died in 1715.

Plaza de España. Rome. Work by Gianbattista Piranesi(1720-1778)

The basic design of the Spanish Steps was developed by the architect Alessandro Specchi and, after much discussion, was supplemented by his colleague Francesco De Sanctis, who gave it the very aristocracy and luxury of the Italian Baroque that we see today. Tactfully combining in decorative design balustrades, lily flowers (heraldic symbols of the Bourbon dynasty) with an eagle and the crown of the Pope, the architects finally stopped many years of bickering. Work began in 1721 on behalf of Cardinal de Tencin and with the support of French funding. Solemn The opening of the Spanish Steps was timed to coincide with the Jubilee year 1725. It happened at direct participation Pope Benedict XIII.

Spanish Steps photographed by Giacomo Brogi (1822-1881)

Since then, the staircase, originating from Piazza di Spagna, received its second, most beloved name.

Around the travertine steps of the Spanish Steps

There is no doubt that Plaza de España received the status of one of the most famous and beautiful squares thanks to the Spanish Steps. Talented creators gave it unusually elegant forms. By extending the steps at the base of the plaza, the architects achieved a stunning visual impact by adding perspective to their design. Dividing into two arms through several upper flights, the Spanish Steps describe an oval in front of the façade of the Church of Santa Trinita dei Monti, emphasizing the beauty and majesty of the temple that crowns it.

Spanish Steps. 1938

This is exactly what the name of the titular title sounds like in translation. catholic church, located above Spanish steps. Being one of the five French-speaking churches in Rome, services are still held here today in French. Built in the period 1502-1519 in gothic style, a new facade was added to it in the middle of the 16th century. Covering the old part of the building, it was decorated with two symmetrical towers designed by Giacomo della Porta and Carlo Moderna. The temple was consecrated by Pope Sixtus V in 1585.

Church of the Holy Trinity on Pincio Hill

Inside the walls are decorated with a cycle of frescoes from the history of St. John the Baptist by Giovanni Battista Naldini. Here you can also see Daniele da Volterra’s masterpiece “The Descent from the Cross”.

In front of the temple at the end of the eighteenth century, Pope Pius VI installed the Obelisk of Sallustiano, imitating the ancient Egyptian one. It was the second to last of the great obelisks erected in papal Rome.

Obelisk of Sallustiano

The observation deck at the top of the hill provides an opportunity to enjoy the view from above of Plaza de España and the surrounding streets.

Observation deck of the Spanish Steps

Via dei Condotti

The name of one of oldest streets Rome, located opposite the Spanish Steps, comes from the pipelines laid here under Pope Gregory XIII (Italian: condutture). They supplied water to the fountains from the nearby Aqua Virgo aqueduct, built under Emperor Agrippa in 19 AD. BC Over time, the name was transformed into the current one, and the street itself today is one of the most luxurious shopping streets in Rome. It houses boutiques of many famous brands - Dior, Gucci, Valentino, Dolce e Gabbana, Bulgari and many others.

View of Condotti street

Barcaccia Fountain

At the very foot of the Spanish Steps there is another, no less famous landmark of Rome - a luxurious fountain in the form of a half-sunken boat. It is a kind of memorial in memory of the tragic flood of 1598, as a result of which many city residents suffered. The project was designed by Pietro Bernini by order of Pope Urban VIII and carried out by the talented architect together with his son in 1629.

Barcaccia Fountain

Entering Piazza di Spagna from Via Condotti towards the Barcaccia Fountain, you can see with your own eyes that Spanish steps with the church towering above it, it forms a uniquely beautiful composition, which numerous tourists immediately strive to visually record. However, not everyone knows that to the left and right of the steps going up, there are two houses that historically connect Rome with the subjects of Great Britain.

Keats and Shelley House Museum

Today, the building located to the right of the stairs houses two famous English poets who lived here previously. Concerned citizens of England and Italy have collected a whole collection of rarities, one way or another connected with their life and work, which is not even in the National British Library.

John Keats and Shelley House Museum

Babington's Tea Room

Opened by Anna Maria Babington and her friend Isabel Cargill over 120 years ago, the English tearoom still retains the quaint atmosphere of a bygone era. In addition to tourists and regulars, it is always visited by diplomats, politicians, artists and other eminent persons arriving in Rome. As before, more than 50 varieties of tea, collected from different parts of the world, are served here. Located Babington tea room right side Spanish Steps, if you look at the hill from below.

Babington's Tea Room

Did you know that:

• next to the stairs, in one of the houses overlooking Piazza di Spagna, Giuseppe Balsamo once lived, who called himself Count Cagliostro... The famous alchemist and esotericist, and perhaps just a swindler, was arrested on the steps of the Spanish Steps. He was sentenced to life imprisonment Catholic Church Rome on charges of heresy and imprisoned in the fortress of San Leo;
• for many filmmakers Spanish steps is one of the best... Most a shining example This can be considered the film “Roman Holiday” by William Wyler with Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck;

Still from the movie "Roman Holiday" 1953

• at the top of the Pincho hill, where the steps of the Spanish Steps lead, next to the church there is the five-star Hassler Hotel... Its president, owner and managing director is Roberto Wirth, a famous Swiss hotelier in the fifth (!) generation;
• the steps of the Spanish Steps have more than once become a catwalk in the world of high fashion... Many world-famous couturiers - Valentino, Gucci, Dolce e Gabbana, as well as famous trading houses hold shows of their new collections here, staging colorful shows;
• in the spring, the Spanish Steps bloom... Every year, usually on April 21, the day of the founding of Rome, its steps and balustrade are decorated with armfuls of open buds of azaleas and petunias, which creates an enchanting riot of colors under the unusually blue Roman sky;
• in December, on the day Catholic Christmas, in the space between the spans of the Spanish Steps they arrange a nativity scene, reproducing scenes of the birth of Christ...

Spanish steps in spring

In conclusion, I would like to add that the Spanish Steps are not the only one. If in former times he ruled the whole world, today Rome is the ruler of our hearts and desires to touch the beautiful.

Spanish Steps - video

Where is the Spanish Steps located?

How to get to the Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps are located in the historical center of Rome in the Piazza di Spagna. The easiest way to get to the Spanish Steps is by metro line A, arriving at the Spagna station.

Spanish Steps - a landmark of Rome and a world heritage site