The Spanish Steps

Situated in the historic heart of the city, near the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps area is one of Rome’s best-known squares and offers a very fine vista. An unmissable spot that draws huge crowds coming to rest on the steps linking Piazza di Spagna to the church of Trinità dei Monti.

Getting there: Spagna metro station or by bus lines (116, 119, 590…)

Address: Piazza di Spagna

Ticket prices: free.

View of the Spanish Steps with the Barcaccia fountain, the staircase and the church of Trinità dei Monti

Piazza di Spagna takes its name from the presence of the Spanish embassy, which settled on the square in the 17th century. The square is lined with handsome buildings in warm colours. But what makes the Spanish Steps famous is the vista from the Barcaccia fountain to the church of Trinità dei Monti, linked by a very fine staircase built in the 18th century.

The Barcaccia fountain was commissioned by Pope Urban VIII from Bernini (father of Bernini). This original fountain represents a boat taking on water. It was set in a basin to overcome the low water pressure feeding the fountain. The fountain bears the arms of the pope’s family, the Barberini, symbolised by bees.

The Barcaccia fountain by Bernini on the Spanish Steps

The monumental staircase leads to the church of Trinità dei Monti. Built in 1725 by the French, it made it possible to link these two parts of the city. Since then it has become a place of rest and meeting for visitors.

An obelisk stands at the top of the staircase. To find out more about the Spanish Steps obelisk

The Spanish Steps covered with flowering azaleas leading to Trinità dei Monti

This staircase is especially pleasant in April, when it is covered with flowering azaleas.

Once you reach the top, at the foot of the church of Trinità dei Monti, you can enjoy a very fine view over Rome.

The Spanish Steps seen from the Trinità dei Monti staircase