The Trevi Fountain in Rome, freshly restored after renovation, is seen on its reopening day, December 22, 2024. Getty Images
Rome’s iconic Trevi Fountain has officially reopened after undergoing a three-month renovation, just in time for the start of the 2025 Jubilee Holy Year. This renovation is not only a refresh for the landmark but also a crucial move ahead of an influx of millions of visitors expected during the Jubilee celebrations.
The Trevi Fountain, built in the 18th century, is one of Rome's most beloved landmarks, drawing countless tourists each year. The renovation work, which cost a substantial 327,000 euros (approximately $341,000), aimed to preserve and enhance the fountain’s historical beauty. This restoration ensures the monument will continue to stand as a symbol of the city's rich cultural heritage for future generations.
In light of the fountain’s popularity and the anticipated large crowds during the Jubilee Year, city officials have implemented new measures to ensure a more comfortable experience for visitors. To prevent overcrowding, the fountain area will now be restricted to a maximum of 400 visitors at a time. This measure allows people to experience the fountain more peacefully and appreciate its grandeur without feeling rushed.
Claudio Parisi Presicce, the superintendent for Rome’s cultural heritage, explained the reasoning behind the restriction. He emphasized, "This way visitors will have ample opportunity to observe it and understand the values it embodies." The new system aims to give tourists a better chance to take in the beauty and history of the fountain, making each visit more meaningful.
With the expected flood of visitors during the Jubilee, which is set to attract millions of pilgrims and tourists, Rome’s city officials have been busy preparing a plan to manage the crowds effectively. To control the number of people around the fountain and maintain order, the surrounding area will be blocked off, ensuring a smooth flow of visitors. Additionally, to enter the fountain area, visitors will need to book their tickets online in advance and pay a small entry fee of 2 euros (about $2.20).
Once inside, visitors will have a limited time of 30 minutes to take in the stunning views of the fountain. While this may seem restrictive to some, the measures are designed to ensure that everyone has a fair chance to visit and enjoy the iconic site without feeling overwhelmed by large crowds.
During the renovation, tourists were still able to participate in the famous tradition of tossing a coin into the fountain, albeit into a temporary makeshift pool. The custom, which is believed to guarantee a return visit to Rome, is an integral part of the experience for many. This tradition also generates a significant amount of money – around 1.5 million euros (about $1.6 million) annually. For the past 15 years, the proceeds from the coins have been donated to Caritas, a Catholic charity that helps the less fortunate.
The reopening of the Trevi Fountain after its renovation marks an exciting moment for both locals and visitors alike. As the Jubilee Year approaches, the monument is ready to shine once more, offering a glimpse into Rome's rich cultural past while continuing its cherished traditions. With careful planning and preservation efforts, the Trevi Fountain is sure to remain one of the world’s most famous and admired landmarks.
