Nestled in the heart of Rome, the Spanish Steps are more than just a staircase. They are a symbol of beauty, culture, and history. As one of the most recognisable landmarks in the Eternal City, the steps have drawn countless visitors for centuries, offering a breathtaking connection between two iconic sites: the Piazza di Spagna at the base and the Trinità dei Monti church at the top.
The Spanish Steps, known in Italian as Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti, were constructed between 1723 and 1725. They were designed by the architect Francesco de Sanctis and financed by the French diplomat Étienne Gueffier. Their generous funding helped realise the grand vision of a staircase leading from the lower city to the hilltop church.
Interestingly, the staircase earned its name not from the French patron or the Italian architect, but from the Spanish Embassy to the Holy See, which was located in the adjacent Piazza di Spagna. Over time, the connection with Spain became a defining characteristic, giving the steps their famous name.
From the moment of their completion, the Spanish Steps became a focal point for artists, poets, and filmmakers, capturing the romantic essence of Rome. In the 19th century, famous literary figures such as John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley found inspiration in the nearby area. In fact, Keats spent his final days in a house overlooking the steps, which is now a museum dedicated to his legacy.
Throughout the 20th century, the Spanish Steps cemented their reputation in popular culture. Hollywood immortalised them in the classic 1953 film Roman Holiday, starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck. The steps remain an essential stop for visitors wanting to relive cinematic history.
In modern times, the Spanish Steps have also been associated with high fashion. Every year, the staircase serves as a backdrop for glamorous events, including runway shows that showcase Italy’s world-renowned designers.
Despite their centuries-old history, the Spanish Steps continue to be one of Rome’s most vibrant and well-maintained monuments. The city enforces strict regulations to preserve their beauty, including bans on sitting and eating on the steps, ensuring they remain pristine for future generations.