The Spanish Steps or Piazza di Spagna is one of the most famous images in the world, as well as being one of the most majestic urban monuments of Rome. A masterpiece of the XVIII century, the square, with its irregular shape, extends itself at the feet of Pincio hill; on top of it the French Church Trinita dei Monti (1502) is located. The square and the church are connected by the monumental Spanish steps, built between 1723-1726 (designed by Francesco de Sanctis). The Piazza di Spagna at the foot of the steps is named after the Spanish Embassy there, so the name simply extended to the steps, which were built in the 18th century to connect both the Embassy and the Trinita dei Monti church (which was under French patronage) with the Holy See - the seat of the Catholic Church in Rome - in the square below At the bottom of the stairs, you will find the famous Barcaccia Fountain, the work of Pietro Bernini and his son, Gian Lorenzo. With its characteristic form of a sinking ship, the fountain recalls the historic flood of the River Tiber in 1598. However, the main attraction of the square has to be the spectacular staircase of Trinità dei Monti.

It was designed by Nicola Salvi and completed by Giuseppe Pannini in 1762. According to legend, those who toss coins into its waters will return to Rome. At its centre , in the niche, there is the statue of Oceanus, who stands atop a chariot pulled by sea horses and is accompanied by tritons. On the left of Oceanus there is statue of Abundance and and on the righ the statue represents Health. Its water, from the ancient aqueduct called Acqua Vergine, long was considered Rome’s softest and best tasting, however, the water is now nonpotable.

The Pantheonis the best-preserved building from ancient Rome and was completed in c. 125 CE in the reign of Hadrian. Its magnificent dome is a lasting testimony to the genius of Roman architects and as the building stands virtually intact it offers a unique opportunity for the modern visitor to step back 2,000 years and experience the glory that was Rome.