Begin your last day with an espresso and head over to the Trevi fountain. The Trevi Fountain is one of the top attractions in Rome and one of the most famous fountains in the world. Trevi fountain, like all great pieces of art, tells a story. In the center of the fountain is a statue of Oceanus, standing under a triumphal arch. His chariot is being pulled by two sea horses, one wild and one docile, representing the opposing moods of the sea. Left of the arch is the statue of Abundance. The statue of Health stands right of the arch. The four statues at the top symbolize: Abundance of Fruits- holding a horn of plenty, Fertility of Crops- holding ears of wheat, Products of Autumn- holding a cup and bunches of grapes, Joy of Prairie and Gardens- adorned with flowers. When the fountain is open roughly €3,000 is thrown into it every day as people follow the tradition of throwing coins over their shoulders. The legend holds that a coin thrown into the fountain will ensure a return to Rome. This tradition also dates back to the ancient Romans who often threw coins in water to make the gods of water favor their journey or help them get back home safely. (Throw in a second coin if you’re seeking love – even a third for wedding bells!) What many don’t know is that the coins are collected every night and given to an Italian charity called Caritas. Caritas, in turn, use the money for a supermarket program giving rechargeable cards to Rome’s needy to help them get groceries. Keep with tradition and toss in a coin for good luck!
Next, head over to the Pantheon church. The Pantheon at Rome is the most preserved and influential building of ancient Rome. It is a Roman temple dedicated to all the gods of pagan Rome. Even today, almost 2000 years after its construction, the breathtaking pantheon is a remarkable building to see. The spectacular design, proportions, elegance and harmony are a striking reminder of the architecture of the great Roman Empire. When Michelangelo saw this wonder for the first time he said that it looks more like the work of angels, not humans. The most fascinating part of the Pantheon is its giant dome, with its famous hole in the top (The eye of the Pantheon, or oculus). The dome was the largest in the world for 1300 years and until today it remains the largest unsupported dome in the world! The diameter of the dome is 43.30 meters or 142ft (for comparison, the United States Capitol dome is 96 feet in diameter). The design of the Pantheon is so that a perfect sphere could sit inside symbolizing the vault of heaven. Such a spectacle in the eye! While there, be sure to be respectful and keep your voice low.
After a good lunch, stroll over to Largo di Torre Argentina, which is also known as a cat sanctuary. The cats are well taken care of by a local charity, and feeding them is prohibited.
Lastly, we have Piazza Navona to explore. This elegant showcase Square in Rome is built on the Stadium of Domitian. Dominitian’s ancient stadium, in the heart of the city, is now adorned with fine Renaissance and Baroque buildings, designed by the most famous architects of the 16C and 17C. The breathtaking magnificence of the piazza was meant to show the authority of Pamphili family, who had their own palace facing the square. The piazza is one of Rome’s liveliest squares, full of tourists, portrait painters, vendors, musicians, mime artists , shops and restaurants. Piazza Navona is considered one of Rome’s most beautiful squares. If possible, visit at sunset as the sight of the Square is awe-inspiring.
Now that you’ve accomplished an impressive three-day tour. Enjoy a great glass of wine and rest up before heading back from this wondrous city.
Trevi Fountain
the Pantheon
Piazza Navona
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