The iconic Fontana di Trevi has officially reopened to the public following extensive maintenance work, ushering in new visitor regulations aimed at preserving one of the most beloved landmarks of Rome. The renovation, carried out by the Sovrintendenza Capitolina as part of the Pnrr Caput Mundi program, took approximately three months and cost around €327,000.
The restoration work became necessary due to the deterioration evident on the monument, exacerbated by the heavy foot traffic and unique microclimatic conditions of the area, which had led to the formation of biological layers, invasive vegetation, and calcareous deposits. During the renovation, thorough cleaning was conducted on the lower surfaces of the fountain, including the rock formation and the areas adjacent to the basin's edge. Structural repairs were also made, ensuring both the aesthetic and structural integrity of the monument.
On reopening day, Mayor of Rome Roberto Gualtieri marked the momentous occasion by tossing a coin—an emblematic gesture associated with the tradition of ensuring one's return to the Eternal City. This new phase of visitation introduces regulated access, allowing approximately 400 guests at any time, ensuring visitors can admire the fountain without the overcrowding it has historically endured.
Visitors now enter the site via the central staircase, with egress organized through the side entrance on Via dei Crociferi. The fountain is open for viewing daily from 9 AM to 9 PM, with the last access time set for 8:30 PM. Special accommodations have been made on Mondays and Fridays to facilitate the collection of coins, as every two weeks there will be necessary cleaning and maintenance activities extending the operational hours on those days from 2 PM to 9 PM.
For the safety and enjoyment of all, visitors are encouraged to circulate freely within the designated spaces around the fountain but will not be allowed to sit on the edge of the basin, eat, drink or smoke. Staff members will be on-site to assist with visitor experiences and security, making the historic site more manageable and enjoyable for both tourists and local residents alike.
Improvements have also been made to the circulation system of the fountain’s water, with Acea undertaking extraordinary maintenance to optimize the operation of pumps and electromechanical components. Improvements included replacing various control elements to sustain the iconic flowing water of the fountain, contributing to the cleansing and safeguarding of its historic features.
Throughout the site, visitors will find informative panels and totems containing QR codes which offer rich historical insights about the Fontana di Trevi, enhancing the overall visitor learning experience.
The reopening of the Fontana di Trevi not only revives the legacy of this historical monument but signifies Rome's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage. It invites millions of visitors to engage with and appreciate the craftsmanship of this Baroque masterpiece, ensuring the fountain continues to sparkle not just as a landmark of beauty but also as a cherished symbol of the city’s enduring history.
The careful planning and execution of the restoration and management efforts highlight the importance of sustainability and historical preservation amid growing tourism pressures. Ensuring such masterpieces can be appreciated by future generations is undoubtedly the ultimate goal of these recent endeavors.
