One of Rome’s most iconic monuments gets a bright new facelift.
After an extensive 18-month restoration effort paid for by Roman luxury jeweler Bulgari, the majestic Spanish Steps in Piazza di Spagna reopened on September 23rd. The restoration project cost the company nearly €1.5 million and was celebrated on the evening of September 22nd with a live concert by the Santa Cecelia Orchestra and a spectacular light and firework show.
Restoration
The restoration included mechanically and chemically washing all 135 travertine steps, removing over growth that had accumulated between stones and in cracks, updating the surveillance system and installing a new drainage system.
During the restoration, various suggestions were made to the city regarding further preservation of the monument, primarily closing the steps at night to avoid damage from disrespectful residents and tourists. At the reopening ceremony, Rome’s recently elected mayor, Virginia Raggi rejected the closing of the steps, citing that “we don’t want to close off the city. It is fundamental to allow people to use Rome’s cultural heritage assets.” Instead she pledged to increase overnight supervision and penalize anyone defacing the monument.
Watch Bulgari’s tribute video to the restoration project.
History of the Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps (known as the Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti in Italian) were designed by architects Francesco de Sanctis and Alessandro Specchi and constructed between 1723 and 1725. The steps were built to connect the Spanish Embassy at the base of the hill in Piazza di Spagna to the Trinità dei Monti Church at the apex.
The famous staircase has been featured in countless films, most notably the iconic 1953 film Roman Holiday that launched Audrey Hepburn’s career and spurred international tourism to the Eternal City.
Stay near the Spanish Steps
Located at the center of Rome’s shopping district and walking distance to the rest of the city’s world-famous monuments, the Spanish Steps area is one of the best places to stay in Rome. Experience the comfort of your own home with the convenience of a central location and spacious accommodations. View our vacation rentals near Piazza di Spagna and the Spanish Steps.
[…] Spanish Steps are a must for every visitor to the Eternal City. Recently renovated by the Roman jewelry and fashion brand Bulgari, the steps are in pristine condition despite the heavy foot traffic they attract. The historic […]
[…] In 2015 Bulgari, the luxury fashion and jewelry brand founded in Rome in 1884 and whose flagship store is located at the base of the Spanish Steps, made a €1.5 million donation to the city for the restoration of the famous staircase. The stairs were closed for 10 months while they underwent careful cleaning as well as stone reinforcement and protection to ensure safety. The Spanish Steps were reopened in fall 2016. […]