Trevi fountain closed

The Trevi Fountain, one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, is currently undergoing significant restoration work, leading to temporary closures and restricted access for visitors. This initiative is part of the city’s broader efforts to preserve its cultural heritage and prepare for the upcoming Vatican’s Jubilee Year in 2025.

Reasons for the Closure

The primary reason for the Trevi Fountain’s closure is to address the wear and tear that has accumulated over the years. The 18th-century Baroque masterpiece has been subjected to environmental factors and the impact of millions of tourists annually, resulting in calcium deposits, grime, and invasive vegetation on its surfaces. The restoration aims to clean the fountain’s marble statues and intricate reliefs, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Current Status in 2024

As of November 2024, the Trevi Fountain is undergoing a two-month maintenance project. During this period, the fountain has been drained to facilitate cleaning and restoration efforts. To maintain the tradition of coin tossing, a makeshift pool has been installed in front of the fountain, allowing visitors to continue participating in this ritual. However, some tourists have expressed dissatisfaction with the temporary setup, describing it as unattractive.

Visitor Access During Restoration

To provide visitors with a unique perspective during the restoration, a temporary walkway is being constructed over the fountain’s basin. This elevated platform will allow limited groups of tourists to view the fountain up close while maintenance is underway. The walkway is expected to be completed within a month and will serve as a pilot scheme to manage tourist flow and alleviate overcrowding.

Future Plans and Access Restrictions

In anticipation of the Jubilee Year in 2025, which is expected to attract millions of pilgrims, Rome’s city officials are considering implementing measures to control access to the Trevi Fountain. These measures may include introducing a timed ticket system and a nominal entry fee to manage the overwhelming number of tourists and preserve the site’s integrity. The current restoration and the temporary walkway will help officials better understand visitor flow and inform future decisions regarding access restrictions.

While the Trevi Fountain’s restoration may cause temporary inconvenience for visitors, these efforts are essential to preserve the monument’s beauty and historical significance. The introduction of a temporary walkway offers a unique viewing experience during the maintenance period. Visitors planning a trip to Rome in late 2024 should stay informed about the restoration schedule and potential access restrictions to ensure a fulfilling experience at this cherished landmark.

If you find yourself in Rome while the Trevi Fountain is temporarily closed for maintenance, there are plenty of other remarkable sites to explore nearby that offer rich history, stunning art, and vibrant cultural experiences. Here’s a list of noteworthy attractions to visit when the Trevi Fountain is unavailable:

1. The Pantheon

• Distance: A 10-15 minute walk from the Trevi Fountain
• Why Visit: The Pantheon is one of the best-preserved monuments of ancient Rome, known for its magnificent dome and the open oculus at the center that lets in natural light. Its harmonious proportions and architectural genius have inspired countless structures around the world.
• Must-See: The tombs of the famous Renaissance artist Raphael and Italian kings Vittorio Emanuele II and Umberto I.

2. Spanish Steps and Piazza di Spagna

• Distance: About a 10-minute walk
• Why Visit: This iconic Baroque staircase connects the Trinità dei Monti Church to the lively Piazza di Spagna below. The area is perfect for people-watching, shopping in nearby luxury boutiques, or simply enjoying a gelato on the steps.
• Tip: Visit in the early morning or late evening to avoid crowds.

3. Galleria Borghese

• Distance: A 20-25 minute walk or a short bus ride
• Why Visit: Located in the Villa Borghese gardens, this art museum showcases an impressive collection of sculptures and paintings by artists such as Bernini, Caravaggio, and Titian. The gardens themselves are ideal for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
• Must-See: Bernini’s “Apollo and Daphne” and Caravaggio’s “David with the Head of Goliath.”

4. The Roman Forum and Colosseum

• Distance: About a 20-25 minute walk or a quick metro ride
• Why Visit: These ancient sites provide an immersive look into Rome’s history as the heart of the Roman Empire. Walking among the ruins of the Roman Forum and standing in the Colosseum’s massive amphitheater is a must for history enthusiasts.
• Tips: Book tickets in advance to avoid long queues and consider a guided tour for deeper insights.

5. Piazza Navona

• Distance: A 15-minute walk
• Why Visit: Known for its Baroque architecture, Piazza Navona is filled with beautiful fountains, including the famous Fountain of the Four Rivers by Bernini. The square is surrounded by cafés and restaurants where you can relax and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
• Must-See: Street performers and local artists who often showcase their work around the square.

6. Treasure Hunt of Hidden Gems

• Church of Sant’Ignazio di Loyola: This lesser-known church has a stunning ceiling fresco by Andrea Pozzo, creating the illusion of a dome where there is none.
• The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore: One of Rome’s four major basilicas, adorned with mosaics and rich historical significance.

7. Trastevere Neighborhood

• Distance: A 30-minute walk or quick bus ride
• Why Visit: This charming district on the other side of the Tiber River is famous for its narrow, cobblestone streets, lively atmosphere, and authentic Roman trattorias. It’s perfect for a day of exploration, enjoying local cuisine, and discovering hidden spots like the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere.
• Tip: Visit at night when the area comes alive with street musicians and a vibrant dining scene.

8. Vatican City

• Distance: A short metro or bus ride
• Why Visit: Home to St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel, this small city-state is a treasure trove of religious art and history. Michelangelo’s iconic ceiling in the Sistine Chapel and Raphael’s Rooms are must-sees.
• Tips: Go early in the morning or book a skip-the-line ticket to maximize your visit.

9. Villa Borghese Gardens

• Distance: Close to the Galleria Borghese
• Why Visit: If you need a break from sightseeing, these lush gardens are perfect for relaxing or renting a bike to explore the scenic paths. The park also offers views of the city from the Pincio Terrace.

10. Campo de’ Fiori

• Distance: About a 15-minute walk
• Why Visit: This bustling square hosts a vibrant market during the day, offering everything from fresh produce and flowers to local artisanal goods. At night, it transforms into a lively social hub with bars and restaurants.
• Tip: Try local specialties like supplì (fried rice balls) from nearby eateries.