Scalinata della Trinita dei Monti
Architect: Alessandro Specchi, Francesco de Sanctis (Final)
Patron: Etienne Gueffier, french diplomat
Date: 1723 - 1725
Period: Italian Baroque
Material: Stone Masonry
The intention of these stairs was the connection of two piazzas that were on two distinct elevation heights, roughly seventy feet in height difference.
After many years of controversial debate, the solution ended up using the practice of terraced garden stairs, except at an inflated scale.
At the base stood the Piazza di Spagna with the Fontana della Barcaccia ("Fountain of the Old Boat" 1627-29). Upon reaching the top, visitors would arrive at the Piazza Trinita dei Monti and the church of Trinita dei Monti (1502-85).
They are the widest known steps in Europe, around eighty feet at the base.
The site is usually crowded, serving as both active and passive interaction. The steps have been used in religious functions, but usually as flower markets. At certain times of the year, it is covered by pots blooming with flowers. It is also interesting to note, the steps are forbidden as a place for eating lunch, by Roman urban regulations.
