Spanish Steps in Rome: History, Photo

When it comes to the main sights of the Eternal City, many will remember Capitol Hill, on which Rome arose, the symbol of Italy - the Colosseum, the destroyed thermae of Caracalla and other famous historical monuments. And not all, unfortunately, will note the most popular meeting place for local residents, so I want to talk more about the architectural structure, which is considered a real curiosity.

French Church and Spanish Square in Rome

The name of this historical masterpiece is not a mistake in tourist guides around Rome, as many might think. And this is by no means a staircase in the Spanish style, although the centuries-old history of the Italian landmark is closely connected with the country of flamenco and bullfight.

Man-made work, considered one of the most beautiful places in Europe, has long been a source of inspiration for world photographers, artists, filmmakers.

The history of this staircase, completing the Spanish Square and rising to the ancient church of Trinita dei Monti, deserves a separate discussion.

By agreement between the French king and the pope at the end of the XV century, a small site on the hill of Pincho in Rome is given for the construction of the temple. Almost a hundred years later, Spain buys a site near Trinita dei Monti to build its embassy there.

The church was supported by the money of French kings and was of great importance to the subjects of the republic, and the area where the diplomatic mission was located was owned by the Spaniards. At first, two powerful powers were at enmity between themselves, until in 1660 a dynastic union was concluded between the daughter of the King of Spain and Louis XIV.

The Spanish staircase as a symbol of peace between the powers

States that have long gone to peace decide to build a ladder that will connect the symbols of different countries to actually show Europe how strong diplomatic ties between them. In honor of this significant event, the French ambassador allocates money for the construction, wishing to please his king, and Cardinal Mazarin makes the decision to decorate the top of the majestic structure with a huge sculpture of Louis XIV himself.

True, not everything was so smooth, because the case took place in Italy, and the Pope was greatly outraged when he learned of the intention to establish an inappropriate statue of a foreign ruler. And the grandiose construction project was frozen.

Competition for the best project

In 1717, almost 60 years later, a competition among architects for the best draft of a wide staircase was announced, best demonstrating the stability of strong relations between powerful powers. Spain and France could not agree on what style the future historical monument will be built. It is known that negotiations were held for six years, until the pope said the last word, giving the construction to the hands of the architect Francesco de Sanctis, unknown to anyone.

Two-year construction

Since 1723, the construction of a monumental baroque staircase was underway. The place where the luxurious construction was erected was previously strengthened, as they feared that the earth could not withstand a powerful construction.

Two years later, the gorgeous Spanish Steps opened in the gaze of the astonished inhabitants in Rome, originally called the nearby church - Trinita dei Monti. Later, the architectural monument is given the name under which it is now known by everybody - Scalinata Spagna.

Description of the majestic architectural masterpiece

The Spanish staircase, the architect of which still refused to install the sculpture of Louis, nevertheless combined in its decoration the heraldic symbols of France (lilies) and Italy (crowns and eagles - attributes of the Pope).

One hundred and thirty-eight steps, made of travertine - a natural stone, combining the properties of marble and limestone - along the entire length of the path are not the same in size. At first glance it seems that they are easy to overcome, but this impression is very deceptive. Climbing the tapering and expanding stairs is very difficult even for a healthy person, and if you consider that in summer the temperature rises to 40 degrees, you can imagine how difficult the way up.

The Spanish staircase, whose amazing design resembles the open wings of a butterfly, is divided into three segments. At the top of the hill is a spacious playground, from which a magnificent view of the Roman sights opens.

Fountain of Barkasca (Barcas)

At the foot there is a cozy fountain, built before the erection of the famous staircase and depicting a sinking boat. According to ancient legends, it was here after the flood in the square found a flooded boat. Near the unusual fountain is always crowded, and among tourists there is a myth that it is here that the most tired traveler is charged with energy and strength from the murmuring water.

The Spanish Steps: Our Days

A popular place, striking beauty and majesty of not only tourists, but also art experts, for many years appoint appointments and business meetings. The favorite place for memorable photos gathers noisy youth and creative parties, to which the city authorities are completely loyal.

High Fashion Shows

This place is loved by high fashion lovers, because here the most famous designers of the world are shown. At the beginning of summer, the Spanish staircase turns into a kind of podium, on uneven levels of which the popular models in luxurious outfits are carefully defile to avoid falling.

These days a completely transformed Roman landmark collects a huge number of Haute couture fans . Laser light, playing with light and shadow, creates stunning visual effects forever remaining in the memory of those who were lucky enough to be present here.

Some interesting facts about the sights

What else is it necessary to know to everyone who comes to the ancient city to admire the amazing structure, which the Italians admit to love?

• The Spanish staircase, the photo of which will make everyone stiffen with delight, was officially recognized three years ago as the most beautiful by the results of the survey among Internet users, leaving far behind the no less masterpiece creations of human hands.

• In spring and summer, delightful flowers blossom here in huge flowerpots standing right on the steps, and the staircase turns into a real colored butterfly.

• Near the stairs is a narrow street of Condotti, which houses the most expensive brand shops. Here you can walk, admiring the glamorous chic, and it is recommended to make purchases in other boutiques.

• As you know, local authorities do not prohibit to gather on the stairs and sit on the stairs. The only thing for which will be imposed a huge fine - for drinking any drinks and eating food.

• Although many sources indicate that the Spanish staircase has 138 steps, according to some sources, they are still less - 135 or 137. On this occasion, sometimes there are heated arguments, and every tourist has a chance to count how many they really are.

• It was here that filming of some scenes from the "Roman holidays" with O. Hepburn, and V. Allen filmed the final footage of his film "Roman Adventures."

• More than three hundred years did not change the appearance of the business card of Rome, and only in 1997, the dilapidated steps destroyed by ruthless time were restored.

Tourists who visited the amazing corner, say that at any time of year the Spanish staircase is beautiful. The city of Rome is proud of its landmark, rightly considering it a cultural and historical value not only of Italy, but of the whole world. And local guides are always advised to those who first visited the ancient capital, be sure to sit on the ancient steps and enjoy a special atmosphere.