View Page: Aqueducts and the Trevi Fountain

	Aqueducts and the Trevi Fountain
	written by floods / 09.13.2004

Section Three

3 of 7

Function

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The Impact of the Trevi Fountain

The impression of the Trevi Fountain is easily felt by people passing through.

The steps leading down towards the Trevi and the fountain's immensity of size and presentation (in relation to its more modest surroundings and urban setting) convey the function of the fountain quite clearly. It was publicly viewed, and meant to be on display for many people. The Trevi is altogether a proud celebration of Rome - of the historical culture and styles, of the dynamics of mood and architecture, as well as of the people who have lived there and the people passing through.

Reflective of the Roman importance of water and power, the Trevi stands as "an imperial gesture, flamboyant and triumphant, the kind of fountain that any Emperor would have erected who desired to impress upon the populace the virtues of new water and his own virtue in introducing it. Much of the most beautiful dream architecture of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries went up in flames in the course of firework displays and the greatest architects of the time were willing to design the ephemeral scenery of masques and public spectacles. Consequentially the Trevi is probably that rare object, a reflection in stone of those fragile splendours" (Morton). Its intention is not easily lost on the viewer. Even the most accustomed local will likely be drawn in by the fountain while passing through the square.

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