Rome is currently undergoing a bit of a facelift.
The Colosseum is ensconced in scaffolding for cleaning; the Spanish Steps are closed for repairs; and for the last 516 days, the Trevi Fountain has looked like a sad, waterless, construction site.
Many of the monuments still have a ways to go, but the Trevi Fountain is finally restored — and 84 days ahead of schedule no less.
It. Looks. Beautiful.
I have avoided the Trevi Fountain area for the last 17 months. I did not like seeing it hidden away behind netting, fences and scaffolds. Without the roar of the water, it seemed abandoned.
With the city of Rome unable to cover the cost of repairs, Fendi stepped in. The Italian fashion house is on a mission to save Rome’s fountains and footed the bill to the tune of 2 million euro.
To me, it was money well spent.
We stood along the upper viewing level and watched the light turn from golden to blue as the sun set, and the lights came on.
After a brief ceremony and countdown the water was turned back on.
It seemed quiet and I doubted my memory. I always thought I could hear the Trevi before I saw it.
But a few minutes later, it was roaring. (You can watch my video here).
With the restoration, you can see all the intricate details that make the fountain so special.
It was such an honor to be there for the re-opening. I hope you have a chance to see it for yourself soon!
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Gorgeous! Last time I was there it was all scaffolded up and seemed so sad. Sounds like it was worth the wait. Thanks for sharing!
It is so much better than I remember — definitely worth the wait and worth another trip to Rome to see it 😉
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