Piazza di Spagna

Piazza di Spagna is a compact square at the base of the Spanish Steps in central Rome, famed for the steep, monumental stairway that rises to the church of Trinità dei Monti. It is one of the city’s most photographed and visited public spaces.

The steps were built in the 1720s to link the Bourbon Spanish embassy area below with the church of Trinità dei Monti above, and the fountain at the base dates from the early 17th century. Over time the piazza grew into a fashionable meeting place for residents and visitors to Rome.

Located on the slopes of the Pincian Hill in central Rome, the square sits between Via dei Condotti and Via del Babuino and is within a short walk of the Tiber River and other central attractions such as Piazza del Popolo.

• Visiting tip: The broad flight of 135 steps is busiest midday; for quieter visits come early morning or late evening, especially in summer.
• Main features: The square contains the Fontana della Barcaccia at its centre and provides direct access upward to Trinità dei Monti and panoramic views over Rome.

What to See #

• Spanish Steps: The Spanish Steps, a monumental stair of 135 steps built in the 1720s that connect the lower piazza to the church of Trinità dei Monti above.
• Barcaccia fountain: The Fontana della Barcaccia, a Baroque boat-shaped fountain at the base of the steps carved by Pietro Bernini in the early 17th century.
• Trinità dei Monti and Keats-Shelley House: The church of Trinità dei Monti and the Keats-Shelley House on the piazza, which houses a small museum dedicated to English Romantic poets.