Piazza di Spagna:
History and Beauty

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Foto scattata all'alba del 21 maggio 2023. Ph Marco Del Torchio

Piazza di Spagna is one of the most famous and iconic squares in Rome. Its history has its roots in the seventeenth century, when Rome was under the rule of the Catholic Church. The square takes its name from the nearby Spanish embassy to the Holy See.

The construction of the square began in 1723, based on a project by the architect Francesco de Sanctis. The square was conceived as a meeting place and representation for Spanish visitors and pilgrims arriving in Rome. The staircase, known as the "Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti", was added at a later time, in 1726, based on a project by the French architect Étienne Génois.

The stairway, made up of 135 steps, connects the square to the Church of Trinità dei Monti, located on the top of the Pincio hill. The church was built by order of King Louis XII of France in the 16th century and was completed only in 1585. The staircase soon became a meeting and strolling place for the inhabitants of Rome and foreign visitors.

Over the centuries, the Spanish Steps became a cultural and artistic reference point. In the 19th century, it became a place of inspiration for many poets, writers and artists, including Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, who lived in Rome for a time.

Today, the Spanish Steps are one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. The steps are often crowded with visitors from all over the world, who sit on the steps or stop to admire the view over the square and the city. The Barcaccia fountain, located at the foot of the stairway, is another characteristic element of the square. The fountain was created in 1627 by the Italian sculptor Pietro Bernini and his son Gian Lorenzo Bernini.

The square is also known for being a major luxury shopping hub, with Italian and international high-end fashion stores lining the surrounding area. Also, during the Christmas season, a large Christmas tree is traditionally set up in the square, creating a festive atmosphere.

Piazza di Spagna represents a place of meeting and beauty, which continues to enchant visitors with its fascinating history and its privileged position in the heart of Rome.