A temporary swimming pool has been placed in front of the Trevi Fountain due to approved works. Italians and tourists disgruntled at the sight.
The reactions caused by the placement were immediate and severe a swimming pool in front of her Trevi Fountain in Rome so that tourists can continue to treat them coins with them while work is being done on the monument.
The swimming pool was put into operation last week and it is surrounded by high rails and plastic guard and visitors throw their coins in the hope that they will reach the water. The coins scattered around the perimeter show how difficult this is to achieve.
The municipal authorities argued that the construction of the swimming pool was done mainly for to protect workers inside the well empty from the coins. In addition, this ensures that the memory will continue to collect the annual income of 1.5 million euros from the coinswhich is available to the Catholic charity Caritas.
“The basin, which is of course temporary and was installed during extensive maintenance work on the fountain, is used to collect the coins worn by tourists,” Cultural heritage official Claudio Parisi Presicce told CNN. “This is a long-standing and beloved tradition”.
However, i social media users express the anger Because of the new construction, calling it a “foothole”, an “architectural child’s creation” and a “small children’s pool where children play in the summer”. Another user, named “Mambo Italiano”, described her as “the saddest sight I have seen in Italy for as long as I can remember”.
The temporary pool falls short of the romantic atmosphere of the original monument.
Legend – or at least movie legend - says that throwing a coin over your shoulder into the fountain ensures that you will return to Rome. Two coins mean that you will fall in love a charming Italian man or woman, and three coins mean that you will marry this person. Other legends claim it is a tribute to the water gods.
The expansion restorationcost 300,000 euroswhich began in early October, is expected to be completed in time for Rome’s 2025 celebrations, a “jubilee year” for the Roman Catholic Church, which is expected to attract millions of visitors.
By then one will have been submitted metal crossing over the empty fountain, allowing tourists to see it up close Statue of Titan Oceanuswith his horses. It is planned to later modify this path to allow the collection of a two-euro ticket from tourists who want to get close enough to release their coins, starting in April 2025.
Some measures have not yet been fully approved by local authorities, such as blocking the entire square, after protests from shopkeepers and residents. Tires are removed twice a day, and the pool is emptied and refilled every morning.
Interview between Sarah Collins, Editor of Time.news, and Dr. Marco Rossi, Architectural Historian
Sarah Collins: Welcome, Dr. Rossi. It’s always a pleasure to have you here to discuss fascinating developments in Italy. Today, we’re diving into the recent installation of a temporary swimming pool in front of the Trevi Fountain. What is your initial reaction to this news?
Dr. Marco Rossi: Thank you, Sarah. It’s certainly a surprising sight, isn’t it? The Trevi Fountain is one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, cherished by both locals and tourists. Having a pool in front of such a historic site raises questions about protecting the integrity of Italy’s cultural heritage.
Sarah Collins: Absolutely! The authorities have stated that the pool is meant for the safety of workers, as well as to continue collecting the coins that generate significant charitable funds for Caritas. Do you think that justifies the decision?
Dr. Marco Rossi: From a practical standpoint, it may be necessary to ensure that maintenance work on the fountain proceeds safely while still allowing for the ongoing tradition of tossing coins. However, the optics of the situation are troubling. A swimming pool of this nature does not blend with the aesthetic of the Trevi Fountain and feels more like a temporary fix rather than a solution that honors the site’s grandeur.
Sarah Collins: Many people are expressing their discontent on social media, describing the pool as “sad” and likening it to a children’s play area. What do you think this says about public sentiment towards such decisions?
Dr. Marco Rossi: The public reaction reflects a deep attachment to the Trevi Fountain as a symbol of Roman culture and history. People expect a certain reverence around such landmarks. When faced with what feels like an insult to that heritage, it triggers strong emotions—especially in a city where beauty and history are treasured.
Sarah Collins: Indeed, and I couldn’t help but notice that the design is generating backlash not just for its aesthetic but for its perceived lack of thoughtful planning. Should the authorities have considered alternatives that could have maintained the integrity of the site during renovations?
Dr. Marco Rossi: Yes, I believe so. There are always alternative methods to collect coins or protect workers. For instance, more discreet structures or innovative approaches that do not disrupt the visual landscape could have been employed. The primary goal should always be to preserve the character of the environment while managing practical necessities.
Sarah Collins: On that note, do you believe there are lessons to be learned here for future urban interventions at historical sites?
Dr. Marco Rossi: Definitely. This incident highlights the need for better public engagement and sensitivity in decision-making processes regarding historical landmarks. Collaboration with historians, local communities, and perhaps even artists could yield creative solutions that respect both the functional needs and aesthetic values of these sites.
Sarah Collins: A very insightful perspective, Dr. Rossi. As we look to the future, what do you hope to see in the way cities approach their historical sites?
Dr. Marco Rossi: I hope to see a greater awareness of the cultural significance of such landmarks. Cities should prioritize maintaining their heritage while also embracing modernity thoughtfully. The aim should be to enhance public spaces without compromising their historical value. After all, these sites are not just tourist attractions; they are living parts of our past and identity.
Sarah Collins: Thank you, Dr. Rossi, for sharing your expertise with us today. Your insights not only shed light on the current situation but also inspire us to think more critically about how we care for our historical treasures.
Dr. Marco Rossi: It’s my pleasure, Sarah. Thank you for having me.