What do the Spanish Steps represent?
The Spanish steps represent figuratively and metaphorically the close relationship between the Sacred and the Eternal city, shown through the elevation and vastness of the monument. The longest and widest steps in Europe are also an important landmark in Rome as they host events and are home to Italian traditions.
Why do they call it the Spanish Steps?
The name can be a bit confusing, as construction of the steps was actually commissioned by the French (Louis XII). In the 17th century, the Spanish embassy was located on the square – ‘Piazza di Spagna’ – at the base of the stairs, hence the name ‘Spanish Steps’.
What can you not do on the Spanish Steps?
“Visitors are not allowed to sit on the steps. They are also forbidden to eat or write on the stairs. Besides, some behaviours are also banned, such as selling goods without permission or dressing up as an ancient Roman officer to take pictures with tourists.
How many Spanish Steps are there?
The Spanish Steps — 174 of them — were built in the 18th century. With the Santissima Trinità dei Monti Church presiding majestically at the top, they are one of Rome’s most popular tourist attractions.
Why can’t you eat on the Spanish Steps?
City authorities have imposed a new ban at the site, beloved of tourists and immortalized in the 1953 romantic comedy “Roman Holiday” with Gregory Peck and Audrey Hepburn. They say too many people sit down for too long, obstructing the steps for others, or stop to eat lunches from nearby fast food joints.
How long does it take to climb the Spanish Steps?
Taking three hours and covering much of this walk plus the Trevi Fountain to Piazza Navona via the Pantheon self guided walk it starts slightly north if the Spanish Steps at Piazza del Popolo and finishes not at Piazza Navona but Campo de’ Fiori.
How far apart are the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain?
The distance between Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain is 578 meters.
Can you drink wine on the Spanish Steps?
You can enjoy some wine-tasting, or even a simple lunch or dinner! But you can also do some wine-tasting in the back, and, during meal hours, even enjoy a very fine, if simple, home cooked meal. A great place for casual drinks near Spanish Steps, especially if you want that local feel.
What happens if you sit on the Spanish Steps?
But as of 2019, a ban has been introduced to prevent tourists from sitting on the 135 steps, spanning from the Trinita de’ Monti to the Piazza di Spagna. A hefty fine of €250 awaits anyone spotted using the steps as a resting spot, enforced by whistle-wielding high-vis-wearing officials patrolling the area by day.
Why can you not sit on Spanish Steps?
The Spanish Steps Sitting Ban
Sitting on the Spanish Steps was banned after the area underwent a major cleaning and restoration project in 2016. The €1.5 million initiative was funded by the jewelers Bulgari, in celebration of their 130th anniversary.
Is there an elevator at the Spanish Steps?
The hidden secret is the elevator that will take you to the top of the steps located to the left of steps around the back as you are looking up.
Can you sit on the Spanish Steps 2022?
The Spanish Steps, or the Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti as the locals call them, are without doubt the most famous steps in Rome. It’s a tempting spot to sit and watch the world go by, but unfortunately this is no longer permitted.
Can you still sit on the Spanish Steps in Rome?
Unfortunately as of 2019, you can no longer sit on the Spanish Steps. Violaters can receive a fine as high as €400. Eating on the steps is also banned. You can walk up or down the steps.
Can you drink from Spanish Steps?
You cannot sit there, eat or drink on the Spanish Steps. The fine can get up to 200 Euro.
Why can’t you eat on the Spanish Steps in Rome?
The city banned eating on the Spanish Steps in 2017, after the staircase was restored with funding provided by the luxury Italian beauty brand Bulgari. The ban on eating and drinking was intended to help protect the steps and to maintain decorum in the city center.