The water is technically 'acque non potabili' (non-potable) despite coming from an ancient aqueduct.
Roughly 3,000 Euros are tossed into the fountain daily, which is collected by Caritas to support charitable programs.
The fountain was built on the site of a smaller, earlier basin designed by Leon Battista Alberti.
The stone facade features a relief depicting the Roman general Agrippa approving the construction of the aqueduct.
The iconic 'Salone delle Vasche' is a hidden underground chamber beneath the fountain that houses the distribution valves.
The fountain was designed to pay tribute to Pope Clement XII, who held a design competition for the project in 1730.
The central statue of Oceanus rides a shell-shaped chariot pulled by two tritons and two sea horses, representing the volatile moods of the ocean.
The Trevi Fountain is the largest Baroque fountain in Rome, standing 26 meters high and 49 meters wide. Designed by Nicola Salvi and completed by Giuseppe Pannini in 1762, it occupies the junction of three roads, marking the terminal point of the Acqua Vergine aqueduct. The central figure is the god Oceanus, flanked by statues representing Abundance and Health. Water flows from a natural source that has supplied Rome since 19 BC. The facade is constructed primarily from Travertine stone, sourced from the Aniene valley. Since June 2026, visitors can access a specialized walkway installed to facilitate ongoing conservation maintenance. The structure is integrated into the rear wall of Palazzo Poli.
The raised viewing platform along the side of the fountain provides a clear view of the central niche.
Use the elevated visitor walkway to see the sculptures at eye level while the fountain undergoes maintenance.
To avoid massive crowds, visit during the pre-dawn hours or late at night.
Bring a coin to participate in the tradition, but ensure you toss it over your left shoulder with your right hand.
Eating or drinking right at the fountain rim, which is prohibited; avoid purchasing 'official' tours from street vendors.
The site remains accessible 24/7, though a restricted-access walkway system is currently in place for ongoing conservation works as of June 2026.
Do not enter the water, climb on the stone carvings, or attempt to retrieve coins; these actions are strictly prohibited and strictly enforced by local authorities.
