Spanish steps travertine details

Spanish Steps: Rome’s Iconic Stairway of Travertine

—

by

Made of Rome
in

The Spanish Steps, or Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti as they are known in Italian, are one of Rome’s most famous landmarks, drawing visitors from all over the world. This monumental stairway, with its 135 steps, is more than just a beautiful structure—it’s a symbol of the city’s enduring charm and elegance, intricately connected to Rome’s history and architectural traditions.

The History of the Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps were designed by the Italian architect Francesco de Sanctis and completed in 1725, funded by a donation from the French diplomat Étienne Gueffier. The stairway was built to connect the Piazza di Spagna at the base, named after the Spanish Embassy to the Holy See, with the Trinità dei Monti church at the top, which was under the patronage of the French monarchy. The project was part of a broader initiative to improve urban infrastructure in the rapidly expanding city of Rome.

The steps quickly became a popular meeting place and a symbol of the cosmopolitan nature of the city, bridging the Spanish influence at the base with the French presence at the top. Over the centuries, the Spanish Steps have hosted countless cultural events and served as the backdrop for numerous films, making them an integral part of Rome’s cultural landscape.

The Role of Travertine in the Spanish Steps

Travertine stone, sourced from the quarries in Tivoli, was used extensively in the construction of the Spanish Steps. This choice of material was both practical and aesthetic—travertine is durable, easy to work with, and its creamy color adds a timeless elegance to the structure.

The travertine used in the steps has weathered centuries of foot traffic, yet it remains remarkably intact, a testament to the stone’s durability. The steps’ natural wear and patina have only added to their charm, giving them a sense of history and continuity with Rome’s ancient past.

Fun Facts and Interesting Details

  • Cultural Significance: The Spanish Steps have long been a hub of cultural activity in Rome. They have been featured in numerous films, most famously in the 1953 movie Roman Holiday starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck. The steps are also a popular spot for fashion shows, photo shoots, and public gatherings, reflecting their status as a symbol of Roman elegance and style.
  • Restoration Efforts: Over the years, the Spanish Steps have undergone several restorations to preserve their beauty and structural integrity. The most recent major restoration, completed in 2016, was funded by the luxury fashion brand Bulgari, which has its flagship store nearby. This restoration involved cleaning the travertine and repairing any damage, ensuring that the steps continue to welcome visitors for generations to come.
  • The Fountain at the Base: At the foot of the Spanish Steps lies the Fontana della Barcaccia, a Baroque fountain designed by Pietro Bernini and his son, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, in 1627-29. The fountain, also made of travertine, is shaped like a half-sunken ship and is said to commemorate a historic flood of the Tiber River.
  • Travertine’s Patina: The travertine used in the Spanish Steps has developed a beautiful patina over the centuries, adding to the sense of history and character that makes this site so beloved. This natural aging process has enhanced the visual appeal of the steps, making them a true embodiment of Rome’s enduring charm.

The Spanish Steps: A Living Monument of Travertine

The Spanish Steps are more than just a functional stairway—they are a living monument, embodying the elegance and history of Rome. The use of travertine stone connects the steps to the city’s ancient architectural traditions, ensuring that they remain a timeless symbol of Rome’s beauty.

As you walk up or down the Spanish Steps, you’re not just traversing a set of stairs—you’re experiencing a piece of Rome’s architectural heritage, carved in the same stone that has built the city’s most iconic structures.

If you’re inspired by the timeless elegance of the Spanish Steps, consider bringing home a piece of Rome’s history with our handcrafted travertine souvenirs. Explore our collection at Made of Rome.