This legendary staircase was first dreamt up back in the 1700s. It was then that architect Francesco de Sanctis and Alessandro Specchi came up with a plan to design and build 138 steps to make it easier for locals to reach the Trinita dei Monti church. With their curves, straight lines, vistas and terraces, the stairs blend beautifully into the surrounding piazza.
The Spanish Steps are a relatively recent addition to the city well, at least in relation to the ancient monuments to which the tourists flock. Yet still they have become an iconic symbol of this city and its romantic spirit.
So named because of the Spanish Embassy which was once situated in this part of town, the Spanish Steps have always been in the backdrop during the most important periods in Rome’s recent history. Over the course of the 1700s and 1800s, they became a key meeting venue for local artistic types. More recently, they have appeared in several well-known movies, from ‘Bicycle Thieves’ in 1948 and ‘Roman Holiday’ in 1953 through to ‘The Talented Mr. Ripley’ in 1999.
When you climb the steps and reach the top, you’ll be met by the stunning 16th century church. At the bottom of the stairs meanwhile, you can explore the charming 17th century Piazza di Spagna, at the centre of which you’ll find Bernini’s Barcaccia Fountain. For a truly captivating experience, find a spot on the steps and watch the spectacle of the sun setting against this beautiful backdrop.
Eating is now forbidden on the steps, so you won’t be able to enjoy a picnic or a gelato here as previous generations once did, but there’s still a sociable ambience here. Join the locals who come to meet here to chat and enjoy their beautiful city.
Located in central Rome, the Spanish Steps are easy to reach by taking Metro Line A (the red line) to Spagna station, which is situated immediately by the stairway. Buses won’t be able to bring you right to the steps, as the surrounding streets are very narrow, but some will stop at Piazza del Popolo, just a pleasant 10-minute stroll away.
