The Spanish Steps in Rome are an old symbol of two powers. The Spanish Steps in Rome are an old symbol of two powers: France and Spain

The Spanish Steps in Rome are one of the business cards city, a very popular place among tourists and city residents. This extraordinary Baroque staircase, considered the most beautiful in Europe, connects the Spanish square with the top of the Pincio hill, where the famous Trinita dei Monti temple is located.

It is always very noisy and crowded here, and from the hill there is a stunning view of the city.

Prerequisites for creation

It was originally intended that the Spanish Steps would serve as a “bridge” to improve relations between the Spanish and French monarchies.

In the 16th century in Rome, on the orders of Louis XII, the Trinita dei Monti church was built on the Pincio hill, which became a stronghold of the French monarchy in Italy for the French forced to live in a foreign land. And in 1620, in Rome, at the foot of the Pincio hill, the Spanish authorities bought the land for the construction of an embassy palace in Italy.

In 1660, Spain and France, who were in constant confrontation, decided to reconcile and conclude a marriage dynastic union between Louis XIV and Marie Teresa. In an attempt to smooth relations between the countries, the French ambassador Etienne Geffier decides to spend the lion's share of his fortune (20,000 crowns) on the construction of a staircase that would connect the Spanish square, which has important for the Spaniards, with the French church of Trinita dei Monti.

The authorities liked this idea, and the famous architect Bernini was involved in the grandiose project, but the Spanish Steps were not destined to appear in Rome in the 17th century. The fact is that Cardinal Mazarin wanted to crown the building with a monument to Louis XIV. The Pope considered this an insult and vetoed the construction, and Etienne Geffier, who sponsored the project, never had time to admire it for himself. beautiful staircase, built after his death.

Construction of the Spanish Steps in Rome

Even after the marriage between Louis XIV and the Infanta, Spain and France fought more than once, and half a century later, the idea of ​​​​building a “bridge” between the symbols of these countries in Rome again became relevant. In 1717, a competition was held among architects to build the Spanish Steps. It was won by Alessandro Specchi and Francesco de Sanctis, who took Bernini's design as a basis.

Before the construction of the most beautiful staircase in the world, which subsequently conquered all of Europe, it took a lot of time to strengthen the Pincio Hill and the Spanish Square. In 1723 everything preparatory work were carried out, and the architects began to implement their project.

They divided the staircase of 138 travertine steps into three segments - a wide central one and two narrower ones on the sides, and installed an observation deck at the very top of the hill.

According to the architects' idea, the side parts of the Spanish staircase in the Baroque style were decorated with French and Italian symbols of power - the papal eagle with a crown and the French coat of arms.

Spanish Steps today

These days, the Spanish Steps are a popular tourist attraction and meeting place for couples and friends. In the 90s, it was restored for the first time since its founding, but nothing has changed significantly.

In the spring, the Spanish Steps are decorated with vases of flowers, and in the winter - Christmas decorations and performances.

I wouldn't call it the most beautiful staircase in Europe. Yes, it is quite impressive, but the crowds of tourists and pestering sellers spoil the whole picture. The only pleasing thing is the view from the observation deck. We arrived there at sunset, and Rome looked like a magical city straight out of the pages of an ancient fairy tale.

Spanish steps in culture and art

The Spanish Steps have appeared in many films and paintings, the most famous of which is “Roman Holiday” with Audrey Hepburn in 1953, where her heroine ate ice cream while sitting on the travertine steps.

The Spanish Steps in Rome are used for fashion shows by such famous couturiers as Valentino and Dolce & Gabbana, whose boutiques are located nearby in Piazza di Spagna. On high fashion days, the entrance to the staircase is limited and it is covered with a satin runner.

What to see next to the Spanish Steps in Rome?

Church of Trinita dei Monti (

In the church of Trinita dei Monti there is a sculpture of the Descent from the Cross, created by Daniel de Volterra, a student of Michelangelo. Unfortunately, we were not able to get inside - the temple was already closed. And its facade was just restored - sadness.

Fountain "Barcaccia" ( Barcaccia)

This elegant fountain was installed on the Piazza di Spagna back in the 17th century by the sculptor Bernini. It is based on the legend of a fishing boat thrown out by the flooded waters of the Tiber.

How to get to the Spanish Steps?

Finding the Spanish Steps is quite easy - follow the map to Piazza di Spagna or take the metro to Spagna station. If you want to stay in this area, then you should check it out.

• Rome area: Campo Marzio
• Address: 00187, Rome, Piazza di Spagna, Staircase to Trinita dei Monti
• Nearest metro: Spagna (line A)

The area around the Spanish Steps is considered the most fashionable in Rome. Boutiques are located here famous brands Dolce & Gabbana, Gucchi, etc., luxury hotels and restaurants.

Rome is a city where everyone can feel like they are part of a single whole: one history, one culture, one world. A tangible symbol of such unity is the Spanish Steps, a path of 138 steps between time and Eternity, where everyone is equal, regardless of what level they are on. In the 18th century, it became a good sign of reconciliation between two empires that had been at war for centuries. In the 20th century, thanks to the brilliant film “Roman Holiday”, it was a sign of equality between people of any social and financial status. This is how the Spanish Steps remain to this day.

The Long Road to the Spanish Steps: Historical Context

At the end of the 15th century, a ghostly calm reigned in Europe, more like the calm before the storm. The War of the Roses began in England, the Turks and Venetians concluded a truce, and in 1480 the world's first permanent embassy appeared in the Papal States. It was the Spanish embassy.

The storm did not take long to arrive. In 1494, the First Italian War began, during which the French king Charles VIII, taking advantage of the illusory rights to the Kingdom of Naples, simultaneously defeated the Florentine Republic and entered Rome, where he concluded a treaty with Pope Alexander VI Borgia a certain kind. Of course, not for free, given the claims of Popes in general and this Pope in particular.

There are not as many people on the Spanish Steps in the early morning as at the height of the day

According to the agreement, the Papal States were not supposed to interfere with the advance of French troops along the Apennine Peninsula and, moreover, were supposed to become one of the bases for attacks on neighboring states. The bribe was beautifully executed: the French bought a plot of land on top of Pincho Hill from the Vatican for the construction of a temple and gave it away as illegitimate son Borgia - Cesare - Princess of Navarre.

As soon as Naples fell, the balance of power on the peninsula was destroyed. The Spaniards still remained neutral: the prudent French managed to conclude an agreement with them in Barcelona, ​​and new overseas colonies required large material costs.

But the first war was soon followed by a second, which quarreled the two powers for a long time: the new French king Louis XII and the Spanish monarch Ferdinand II did not divide the spoils and spheres of influence in Naples. The confrontation between the two empires dragged on for 2 centuries, despite numerous dynastic marriages and a joint fight against the Protestants.

The Long Road to the Spanish Steps: Half a Century to Reflect

In 1620, Spain acquired a palace for its embassy in the Papal States. For the construction of the building, the Spaniards bought a plot of land on one of the slopes of Pincho Hill. Everyone who was on the embassy premises was under the protection of the crown. There was also a minus. According to legend, young men who accidentally wandered into this area were forced into soldiers by the Spaniards.

Meanwhile, on Pincio Hill, above the building of the Spanish Embassy in Piazza di Spagna, one of the most beautiful Roman churches, Santa Trinita dei Monti (Holy Trinity on the Hill, 1502-1587), has stood for many years. By the French, on French soil, with French money and in honor of the French victory over Naples.

The Church of Santa Trinita dei Monti still belongs to France

In 1660, France and Spain concluded another dynastic marriage between Louis XIV and Infanta Maria Theresa. In honor of such significant event In a move that could lead to reconciliation, the French envoy to the Papal States, Etienne Geffier, bequeathed most of his fortune to the construction of a staircase between the Piazza di Spagna and the church of Santa Trinita dei Monti.

With these 20 thousand crowns in those days it was really possible to build anything, much less a new staircase to replace the unreliable wooden one. Bernini himself was involved in working on the project, and Spanish Steps in Rome could have appeared half a century earlier.

But it did not appear, since Cardinal Mazarin himself became interested in the plans for its construction. By his order, the staircase was to be crowned with an equestrian statue of Louis XIV. No Pope could have done this, and bribes would not have helped: the matter smelled like another war between France and Spain, and even on the territory of Rome. Pope Alexander VII shelved the project, but relations between the Vatican and France still worsened.

Piazza di Spagna in Rome

France fought with Spain more than once in the 17th century. Louis's marriage allowed him to lay claim to Spanish lands, especially since the infanta's dowry was never paid. The two-century confrontation ended only in 1714.

As a result of the War of the Spanish Succession, France managed to elevate one of the Bourbons to the throne. On this occasion, the project according to which was to be built Spanish Steps in Rome, has become relevant again. In 1717, the competition was won by the architect Francesco de Sanctis, who updated Bernini's sketches. However, construction was delayed again. Due to the claims of the new Spanish king to lost lands in Italy and... France, since new king, Louis XV was still too young and in poor health.

Fortunately, the war lasted only two years (1718-20). And soon - in 1725-27 - as a sign of the final reconciliation of the two European powers - it was finally built Spanish steps. The symbols of the dynastic unity of the two powers in the sculptural design of the staircase were French lilies and the papal eagle and crown.

Christmas performances and fashion shows are held on the Spanish Steps

The embassy of this country is still located in the Plaza de España. The church of Santa Trinita dei Monti still belongs to France and is the titular temple of the French cardinals.

Instead of equestrian statues, which went out of fashion with the French Revolution of 1789, an Egyptian obelisk from the former gardens of the ancient Roman historian Gaius Sallust Crispus was installed in front of the temple, at the beginning of the Spanish Steps. The church itself houses the priceless fresco “The Descent from the Cross” by Daniele da Volterra, one of Michelangelo’s students.

By the way, official name, which is carried by the Spanish Steps - Scalinata della Trinita dei Monti. That is, the Staircase of the Church of the Holy Trinity on the hill. C'est la vie...

How to get to the Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps in Rome are one of the most visited attractions. People sit on it, admiring the views, sing songs, and watch Christmas performances and fashion shows. Often the Spanish Steps also become a kind of amphitheater, where spectators come to watch the next concert on the Piazza di Spagna stretching in front of it. You can do everything here. However, recently it has been prohibited to eat on the stairs.

Fans of English culture come here to pay tribute to the outstanding poet John Keats. The house on the right side of the stairs (as you face it) is the house where he ended his days, hopelessly trying to cope with tuberculosis. Now this building houses the Museum of Keats and Shelley, another great English romantic poet of the 19th century, who lived and died in Italy for 4 years.

The Barcaccia Fountain was installed in Rome in 1629.

The Barcaccia Fountain, the world's first fountain whose bowl is below ground level, also attracts attention. We've already talked about it. The fountain itself is small, but surprisingly elegant. And the fresh water gushing from its holes is worth visiting in the forty-degree Roman heat.

According to reviews, the Spanish Steps are the second most popular free Roman attraction after. In the end, if you put aside thoughts about war and peace, if you climb it, you can walk to the Roman Zoo in a few minutes. So the concentration of crowds of tourists chasing anyone who finds themselves in the Italian capital is maximum here.

You can get to the Spanish Steps by metro

You can visit it at any time of the day. Early morning Spanish Steps in Rome is in the shade, but there are not as many people in this area as at the height of the day.

If you decide to settle in another place, then you can even get to the Staircase by public transport. To do this, you need to get to the metro station "Plaza di Spagna" at

The Spanish Steps in Rome are considered to be the most beautiful in all of Europe. It is called an architectural curiosity, so tourists who find themselves in Rome try to have time to look at it. The staircase is a cascade of well-honed, polished steps that cascade neatly down from the top of Pincio Hill. The descent leads to the foot of the famous Spanish square. Many artists and world-famous photographers seek inspiration here.

History of the Spanish Steps

It was built almost three centuries ago, but its roots are Spanish (although the relationship to the French cannot be denied). Many, reading the title for the first time, are sure that it is actually Italian, and that the article is just a typo, but this is not so. This world-famous architectural monument belongs to the Baroque style, which is famous for its pompous details and sweeping forms. It completes the large Piazza di Spagna in Rome, paving the way to the famous church of Trinita dei Monti.

It is believed that the view from the top of Pincho Hill puts a person in a trance-like state.

If you remember a little about the history of Rome itself, it’s clear where the staircase got its name. Previously, the church of Trinita dei Monti at the top of the Poncho hill was maintained by the French kings. But their closest relatives at that time were the Spaniards. In the square below was the Spanish Embassy. Such family ties were beneficial to the Italians, and it was simply necessary to show a special attitude towards such alliances.

The French ambassador named Etienne Geffier was very eager to please his king, so he came up with the idea of ​​connecting the Spanish square with the church of the French kings. He left a will for a decent amount for the construction of a staircase (immediately after this he died suddenly, so he did not have time to evaluate his achievements). But the well-known Cardinal Mazarin decided that a statue of Louis XIV should be placed at the top of the majestic staircase. Today, about 5 million people admire this creation every year.

Of course, not everything was so good, because the “initiators” of the construction did not take into account that they started the construction in Rome. There were rumors that the Pope was extremely dissatisfied with such outrage, because he was infuriated by the proposal to erect a statue of the King of France in this place. For this reason, approval of the project was rejected, and construction never began during the lifetime of the French king, who was in love with Spain. This continued until 1717, when they finally announced a competition for best project Spanish Steps in Baroque style.

The victory was won by a previously unknown architect, whose name was Francesco de Sanctis. In fact, this creative person was much more interested in philosophy, Italian philology and literature, but it was his development that was recognized as the best. In 1723, large-scale construction began, and literally 2 years later it appeared in Rome. amazing beauty Spanish Steps. Of course, the Pope never gave permission to install the statue of the King of France, so the staircase was decorated only with Bourbon symbols, along with the attributes of power of the Pope himself - an eagle and a crown.

Spanish Steps in Rome: our days

Despite a lot of complications, today everyone can see the Spanish Steps, which is the decoration of Rome. In total, it has 138 steps, climbing which you can clearly see the northern side of Rome, filled with attractions. The foot of the staircase is decorated with the Barcaccia fountain. It is made in the form of a small boat, and huge crowds of tourists constantly scurry around it, many of whom believe that this fountain fills them with power. They say that the Barcaccia project was born after the Tiber River, having overflowed its banks for a certain time, left a boat abandoned by fishermen (it served as a prototype for the architects).

It seems that the 138 steps that make up the Spanish Steps can be climbed in just a couple of minutes. Tourists usually do not realize how wrong the first impression is. Each step of the staircase narrows or widens in a bizarre way, many of them have bizarre shapes or curves, so climbing the Spanish Steps is a test for physically healthy people. Not only do you have to overcome difficult flights, but you also have to maneuver between tourist groups, while the air temperature in Rome in the summer is about 40 degrees.

The Spanish Steps are a place for the most memorable photographs and selfies, but its beauty amazes not only tourists, but also world-famous art critics. A recent survey on the World Wide Web proves that scientists almost unanimously gave it primacy. It even surpassed the legendary staircase that adorns Montmartre. Lovers from all over the world adore it, considering it an ideal place for dates.

The Spanish Steps are no less loved by connoisseurs of world fashion. It is here that the most popular shows of famous couturiers are held. During the show, the staircase is completely transformed. Unique lighting and professional play of light and shadows, models descending smooth steps create a visual illusion. At this time, the Spanish Steps are perceived as something incredible, inaccessible to common man. Moreover, after the end of the show, you can immediately calmly move along the steps and sit on them, since the authorities of Rome do not prevent this at all.

How to get there?

You can visit the Spanish Steps in Rome absolutely free at any time of the day: there are no restrictions. Of course, it is best to come here early in the morning, when the sun is still kind to tourists and there are not so many visitors. The Spanish Steps are the second most popular free attraction after the Trevi Fountain, so there are a lot of people here at the height of the day. In addition, this is an area known as the Roman shopping mecca. If you decide to live nearby, it is better to find out prices and availability in advance.

For those who have settled in other areas of Rome, the road to the Spanish Steps will also not cause any special problems. The best way to get to the metro station "Plaza di Spagna". For shopping lovers, the best option would be to go to the Spanish Steps along Via Condotti, as this is where the most fashionable Roman boutiques are located. If you decide to visit the Trevi Fountain first, you will need to return to the intersection of five streets, then turn onto Francesco Crispi and walk a block, then turn onto Via Sistina.

Spanish steps, Spanish steps- an 18th-century staircase in Rome, an architectural monument of the Baroque style and simply a popular attraction in the historical part of the city.

The staircase has unusual story its appearance, which is even reflected in its name, but today it is, first of all, tourist site and a place for parties and relaxation. It is also impossible not to mention another role of the Spanish Steps - a classic place for making dates.

Story

The background of the history of the creation of the Spanish Steps in Rome lies the complex political relationships in Europe during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Rome in the 17th-18th centuries was the capital of the Papal States - a sovereign monarchical state, but rather weak both militarily and politically. Because of this, the Papal States were strongly influenced by neighboring states, primarily France, and were de facto dependent.

Now we can talk about the events that are associated with the appearance of the stairs. It all started long before its construction - on Pincio Hill, by order and with the money of the French king, the Trinita dei Monti church was built (completed in 1585), which became the center of the “French reservation”. At the same time, at the foot of the hill, a similar “Spanish reservation” was formed around the Spanish Embassy on Spanish Square.

“Staircase to Trinita dei Monti” (Scalinata di Trinita dei Monti) is the dry official name of the attraction, which retains an echo of that political conflict. And the “Spanish Steps” is a popular name.

Initially, the top of the hill was not connected to this part of the foot, which was not very convenient, and even before the completion of the church there were plans to create a stone staircase. But an unusual event happened - the French diplomat Goffier, who died in the middle of the 17th century, bequeathed huge funds for a specific purpose - the construction of a luxurious staircase in this place. This fact should have pleased Pope Clement XI, as it allowed him to save public funds, but Cardinal Mazarin, the de facto ruler of France, intervened in the matter.

The cardinal, having learned about the diplomat's will, demanded that a huge equestrian statue of the King of France, Louis XIV, be installed at the top of the future Spanish Steps. The Pope could not tolerate such a blow to his own reputation and construction did not begin, and then Goffier’s nephew protested the will, which delayed the implementation of the project for half a century.

Construction of stairs

But to be more precise, the idea of ​​​​building a staircase (and, probably, the desire to use the diplomat’s money) was returned after the death of Louis XIV. In 1717, a competition was already organized, which was won by the papal architect Alessandro Specchi, but construction began only in 1723 and according to a different project. The French monks from the church, who were in charge of the budget, chose as the basis another project from the young Francesco Sanctis, who, however, had to work in collaboration with Specchi.

The statue of the French king was nevertheless abandoned, but all royal ambitions were satisfied - the staircase is decorated with both the coats of arms of the dynasty of French kings and symbols of papal power.

The construction of the Spanish Steps was completed in 1725; it formed a single architectural ensemble consisting of a French church, the stairs themselves, and a square with the Barcaccia fountain. Today, this small piece of Rome is one of the city's most popular attractions, just behind the Colosseum, the Vatican and the nearby Trevi Fountain.

Since the completion of construction, the staircase has been restored many times, most extensively in 1995. Original appearance completely preserved, only the effects of natural wear and tear were corrected. New reconstruction began in the summer of 2016.

Spanish Steps as a landmark

In Rome, with its abundance of attractions, it is still possible to highlight several main ones, and the Spanish Steps will definitely be among them. One can even assume that if not for the Colosseum, then this particular staircase could have become an unofficial symbol of the city of Rome.

Every year, up to 5 million people visit the Spanish Steps and Plaza de España, according to city authorities. Interestingly, these attractions are completely free for tourists.

Free, except for the voluntary throwing of coins into the Barcaccia Fountain at the foot of the Spanish Steps. According to rumors, up to 700 thousand euros per year are officially caught from it.

Films played an important role in the popularity of the staircase, primarily “Roman Holiday” (1935) with Audrey Hepburn. The film, which later became a classic, contains a number of scenes filmed at the Spanish Steps and was probably the main impetus for the popularity of the attraction, which is now included in all guidebooks and excursion routes.

Also the staircase is considered traditional place for setting up meetings and dates, but today this is not very convenient, since there are a huge number of tourists at any time of the day.

Attractions near the stairs

But such high tourist popularity is also influenced by the location of the Spanish Steps in the historical center of Rome. Even around the stairs there are many attractions, and almost half of the important places in the Italian capital are simply within walking distance.

As already mentioned, the staircase enters into the architectural complex of the square where the fountain is located and the top of the hill where the church is located. On the square itself, in addition to the fountain, there is a house-museum of the artist Giorgio de Chirico, and the building to the right of the stairs, if you look at it while standing at the foot, is the Keats and Shelley Museum.

At the top of the hill, just 200 meters up the street from the church, is the Villa Medici, which in turn is located on the edge of the Villa Borghese park.

Shoppers will also enjoy the Spanish Steps. You don’t even have to go anywhere - the districts with boutiques start in the west, Dolce Gabanna, Chanel and several other stores directly overlook the square, and walking along the pedestrian alleys deeper into the block you can find other boutiques of almost all world and Italian brands.

After walking about 250-300 meters through the quarter with boutiques to the west of the Spanish Steps, you can find yourself on Corso Street, where the Altar of Peace is immediately located, several churches and the Tiber flows a little further. The total distance from the river bank to Plaza de España is 600 meters. And in the south, about 700 meters away, is the most famous Roman fountain - Trevi.

Within walking distance of the Spanish Steps there are many theaters, museums, galleries and simply pleasant streets of “classical Italy” that you can stroll along. It's quite a long walk to get to other major attractions, but the journey by public transport won't take much time. So from here the Colosseum is only 2 kilometers to the south, to the Vatican is also 2 km, but to the west.

How to get there

The Spanish Steps are located near Piazza di Spagna, the nearest stop is Spagna. The easiest way to get there is by metro, line A (orange) or by bus route 117. Many transport routes converge at Piazza del Popolo, from which you will have to walk about 600 meters to the stairs.

Spanish Steps on the map

Tourist Information

Photo

Select a hotel in Rome for your dates using the map

and start tracking cheap tickets to Rome in advance - that is, right now! Or subscribe and receive offers on selected routes by email.

Spanish Steps in Rome – favorite place tourists, where you can admire the panoramic view of the city and refresh yourself pure water Barcaccia Fountain, or just take a break in the shade of the trees.

This staircase to Piazza Spagna in Rome is so popular that one can rightfully say: “Whoever has not sat on the steps of the Spanish Steps has never been to Rome!”

Now any attraction of Rome is “only” for us an object of admiration or a workshop on the history of European civilization.

The driving force of political ambitions in creating the image of the city, as a rule, remains outside the scope of attention independent travelers. Beautiful palazzos, tall triumphal columns, spacious squares, grandiose palaces, majestic monuments - all these are symbols of power, certain signs of the power of those in power, by whose will the appearance of the great city of Rome was formed.

The history of the construction of the Spanish Steps in Rome is further confirmation of this. By the middle of the 17th century, the Plaza de España, named after the Spanish Embassy to the Papal See located here, became a place for demonstrating the strength of the papal power and the French monarchs. It would seem, why, when talking about the history of the Spanish Steps in Rome, we talk about the confrontation between France and the Vatican?

The thing is that in 1700 the throne of Spain was occupied by a representative of the Bourbon dynasty, and two centuries earlier, on the top of the Pincio hill, Louis XII of the Valois dynasty built the Church of Trinita dei Monti to commemorate his victory over the rebellious Naples. The entire area around the Plaza de España is so tightly controlled (formally) by Spain, but in reality by the French Bourbons, that any “foreigner” who happened to wander into the area of ​​the Spanish Embassy could be forcibly consigned to serve in the Spanish army. In addition, in this territory of Rome, controlled by the Spanish crown (with Bourbon roots), any person dissatisfied with papal authority could easily take refuge. Naturally, the Vatican could not arrange such a state of affairs.

“Fuel to the fire” of the confrontation between papal power and the French monarchs was “added” by the story of the will of one French diplomat Etienne Geffier (1661), who bequeathed huge money for the construction of stairs from the Spanish Embassy to the Church of Trinita dei Monti (located at that time under the patronage of the Bourbons), with an obligatory indication on the bottom step, thanks to whom this staircase appeared in Rome. In addition, the “Geffier project”, through the efforts of Cardinal Mazarin, was also enriched by the construction of a majestic monument to Louis XIV (grandson of the first king of Spain from the Bourbon dynasty) in front of the entrance to the Church of the Holy Trinity.

Of course, the Holy See could not allow such an open “show of force” a stone’s throw from the Vatican, and quietly shelved Geffier’s project/will, especially since the nephews’ claims to the French diplomat’s inheritance contributed significantly to this.

So, for 60 long years, the warring parties pretended to forget about building a Spanish staircase (with French filling) in Rome from Piazza Spagna to Trinita dei Monti. Until Pope Clement XI in 1717 decided to put the interests of the townspeople above political preferences and replace the narrow wooden staircase to the Church of the Holy Trinity in the bushes with something befitting of Great Rome.

According to all the laws of court architecture, the project of the Spanish Steps in Rome should be implemented according to the design of the papal architect Alessandro Specci, but the French monks of the Church of the Holy Trinity did not like it and was rejected. An unknown architect, Francesco de Sanctis, submitted his project to the competition and won. Construction of the Spanish Steps lasted from 1723 to 1726.

For those who do not want to climb the Spanish Steps and count the 135 steps themselves, pay attention to the elevator, which is located on the left immediately when you exit the Piazza Spagna metro station. It is interesting that the number of steps of the Spanish Steps is indicated differently in different sources: somewhere they counted 135, somewhere 137, and somewhere 138! Maybe one of the travelers of the project “To Europe!” will count them and finally name the exact number of the most famous staircase in Rome?!

Spanish Steps on the map of Rome:

Receive a bonus from us up to 2500 rubles as a gift for accommodation in apartments from private individuals on the Airbnb service. Such placement can be much more economical. Sign up and go on an adventure!