The Trevi Fountain is a popular tourist spot in Rome, known for its beauty and unique traditions. Tourists often flock to the fountain, especially during the summer, to capture their own “La Dolce Vita” moment. However, one must be careful not to go into the water, as doing so could result in a fine. Legends suggest that by throwing a coin over your left shoulder using your right hand into the fountain, you are guaranteed to return to Rome at some point in your life. This tradition has been going on for centuries, with visitors making a wish before tossing their coins into the fountain.
The money collected from the Trevi Fountain is done twice a week, with signs around the fountain indicating that the change will be donated to charity. Workers from regional utility ACEA are responsible for extracting the coins from the fountain. Using long brooms and suction hoses, they gather the coins and take them to Caritas, a non-profit organization run by the Catholic Church. Caritas uses the money to fund food banks, soup kitchens, and welfare projects in Rome. In 2022, Caritas collected 1.4 million euros from the fountain, and they expect to gather even more in 2023.
The Trevi Fountain attracts around 21 million tourists each year, making it one of the most visited tourist attractions in Rome. Completed in 1762, the fountain features statues of Tritons guiding the shell chariot of the god Oceanus, symbolizing the taming of the waters. The fountain is famously depicted in Federico Fellini’s film “La Dolce Vita,” where Anita Ekberg wades into the fountain after midnight, inviting Marcello Mastroianni to join her. Despite its allure, tourists are warned not to wade into the fountain waters, as doing so can result in a hefty fine.
In recent years, there have been instances of tourists swimming in the Trevi Fountain and facing consequences. For example, two Australians were fined 450 Euros and banned from accessing certain areas of the city for 48 hours after swimming in the fountain waters. The fines serve as a reminder to visitors to respect the historical and cultural significance of the fountain. Despite the allure of its waters, it is important to admire the Trevi Fountain from a distance and participate in the tradition of tossing coins into the fountain while adhering to the surrounding rules and regulations.
Overall, the Trevi Fountain continues to be a symbol of beauty, tradition, and charity in Rome. From its stunning architecture to the legends surrounding its coins, the fountain captures the hearts of millions of visitors each year. The money collected from the fountain not only serves as a tourist attraction but also contributes to important social initiatives in Rome, making it a unique and meaningful part of the city’s culture. Next time you visit Rome, make a wish, toss a coin into the fountain, and appreciate the history and significance of the iconic Trevi Fountain.
