The Spanish Steps, [Scalinata di Spagna], are a set of steps in Rome, climbing a steep slope between the Piazza di Spagna at the base and Piazza Trinita dei Monti, dominated by the church of Trinita dei Monte. The Steps are the longest and widest staircase in Europe.In the Renaissance period, the square was the most popular tourist attraction in the city and attracted artists and writers, and was also full of elegant hotels and residences.
The staircase has been constructed by 138 steps and was designes by Francesco de Sanctis. It was funded by a French diplomat Stefano Guffierwas. The steps are a mix of curves, straight flights, vistas and terraces. The stairs and had many restorations over the years, the most recent being in 1995. The steps got theit name from the Spanish Embassy to the Holy See which was located in the Piazza.
At the foot of the stairs, you will find the famous Barcaccia Fountain. With its characteristic form of a shinking ship, the fountain recalls the historic flood of the River Tiber in 1598, and refers to a folk legend whereby a fishing boat carried away by the flood of the river was found in that exact spot.
During Christmas time, a 19th century crib is displayed on the first landing of the staircase, and in May, part of the steps are covered by pots of azaleas. Thre steps are not a place for eating lunch, as this is forbidden by the Roman urban regulations, however the steps are usually crowded with people.
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