Article Advise

submitted: Aug 6th 2008 | by: JillKammer | Total views: 3 | Word Count: 731 | |

Contrary to what the name may imply, the famous Spanish Steps were actually built by the French. Regardless, visitors to Rome have been delighted by them for many year. Some feel they are "just stairs" from the Piazza di Spagna to the Villa Medici, but as any experienced traveller knows, often-times it's not so much about the destination but about how you actually get there that truly matters.

The Spanish Steps or as they are otherwise known, the Scalinata di Spagna, are 137 steps that were built between 1723 and 1725. They can be found near a outdoor plaza that is triangular in shape called the Piazza di Spagna which itself is one of the most popular tourist sites in Rome.

The steps are scenic, mysterious and elegant as they wind up a mild incline that passes through some of the most enjoyable and popular areas people love to visit in Rome. But it's good to glance down at these amazing stairs, because they are lovely to look at in their own right. They look delightful in any season but when the spring flowers are erupting all over Rome, the Spanish Steps are alive with the sight and smell of azaleas that pour over from the many greenhouses along the walk.

When the Piazza di Spagna bursts with the colors and aromas of spring flowers, Romans know that summer is at hand. The weather in Rome can get quite hot, even in the autumn. So the many cafes, shops and restaurants near the Spanish Steps are always popular in warm weather. In fact, many people enjoy taking a snack or light lunch and just resting on the steps themselves and enjoying the sights as they dine. Sadly, that practice has been restricted of late. Of course, this is Rome, and that means the citizens tend to ignore the law, so it's likely you'll still see people indulging in this practice.

The base of the steps is near a wonderful Bernini fountain called La Barcaccia or the Fountain of the Old Boat. This fanciful fountain features a partially sunken ship. The water of the fountain literally bursts from the holes in the boat. They say the ship itself was designed by Bernini's son Gian Lorenzo. But it is a unique fountain that Pope Urbano VIII commissioned done in 1627.

In addition to admiring the steps themselves and this delightful fountain, you can also take in the Memorial House to Keats and Shelly. After that fascinating stop, you can relax with a nice cool drink from the many bars that dot the city in that area and then climb the steps again on your return.

Don't worry about getting weary on your climb because the designers placed three rest areas with plenty of flat space for you to relax, do some shopping, have a beverage or a snack and recuperate before resuming your climb. When you successfully climb all of the steps, look back on a gorgeous view and then it is on to the Church of Trinta dei Monti.

It took almost 200 years for this church, more formally known as the Santissima Trinita al Monte Pincio, to be built after construction got underway in 1502. The late Gothic style of the church makes it unique as does the neo-classical facade. The Roman fascination with Egyptian art is reflect by an obelisk that came to Rome in the third century that decorates the courtyard of the church.

Just a short walk way is a well known spot known as the Via Veneto. This location became known in the 1950s as a place where a young girl could get pinched by a flirtatious Italian boy. While that kind of forward behaviour has calmed down in modern times, it is still a great area of Rome to shop, dine and enjoy the marvellous architecture all around you.

Don't miss out on the chance to see and experience the Spanish Steps during your next trip to Rome. Even though these Italian steps were created by the French, the name dates back to the 18th century when the Spanish Embassy stood near by. And while the embassy is gone, the international feel of the Spanish Steps continues on to this day.

About the Author

Rome - the Eternal City is a wonderful place with over 2000 years of amazing history still on display everywhere. Here's a few suggestions for some of the most popular attractions for tourists while visiting Rome.

Comments

No comments posted.

You do not have permission to comment. If you log in, you may be able to comment.