Rome Spanish Steps - Europe's widest and longest staircase.

Few cities in the world can match Rome, Italy when it comes to ancient ruins and architecture. With landmarks like the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon, it doesn't take long before one discovers the uniqueness of Rome (The Eternal City). Considered to be the widest and longest staircase in Europe, the Spanish Steps add to Rome's intriguing history with the finest of polished Baroque architecture and styling.

Popular among visitors to Rome, the Spanish Steps are located in an interesting part of the city where you'll find many of the most popular tourist attractions. At the top of the steps, you have Trinità dei Monti church, a late Renaissance catholic church with an intriguing obelisk by the main entrance. At the bottom, you have Piazza di Spagna (Spanish Square), one of the most popular squares in Rome. The square has a beautifully designed boat-shaped fountain called Fontana della Barcaccia, with water sourced from a 19BCE aqueduct. The fountain is said to have been designed by Pietro Bernini, the father of famous sculptor Gian Lorenzo Bernini.

Also present at the foot of the Spanish Steps is the Keats-Shelley House, which is now a museum. Famous romantic poet John Keats spent his last days before his untimely death in 1821 at the house. He was only 25 years old at the time.

Today, the staircase is a gateway to luxury shopping, fine dining, and cultural immersion. The allure of the Spanish Steps has made it a frequent filming location for popular movies and TV shows. These include the 1953 classic Roman Holiday, The Talented Mr. Ripley starring Matt Damon, and Tom Cruise's Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One, which featured the steps (some scenes used a replica) and also used the location for the movie's premiere event.

The site is also a popular location in the fashion industry for photoshoots and shows. Italian luxury brand Bulgari, which has taken inspiration from the various attractions in Rome, is particularly fond of the Spanish Steps. The company commissioned a 1.5 million euro renovation of the steps in 2014 and celebrated the completion of the project with an elaborate event in 2016. Highlights of the event included an intriguing light show, ballet dancers, and performances by the symphony orchestra, Orchestra dell'Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia, conducted by Antonio Pappano.

Architecture

Designed by architects Francesco de Sanctis and Alessandro Specchi, the Spanish Steps structure is a fine example of Baroque architecture, a highly ornate and theatrical style that emerged in Italy in the 17th century and spread across different European countries.

Characterized by grandeur and drama, Baroque architecture is renowned for its elaborate decorations and dynamic forms. The Spanish Steps embody all these tenets with a total of 135 steps ascending in a captivating set of flights (drama), spanning a total of 3,000 meters squared (grandeur), and covering a steep hill of close to 29 meters. Primarily made out of travertine stone, the stairs elegantly incorporate the use of bricks, marble, and plaster.

History

The initial idea for the stairs was conceived by Pope Gregory XIII, who wanted a staircase to connect to the recently completed Trinità dei Monti. This explains the official Italian name, Scalinata della Trinità dei Monti ( the Stairway to the Church of Trinita dei Monti).

Named after the nearby Spanish Embassy to the Holy See (See of Rome), the structure was completed in 1725 thanks to funding from the estate of French diplomat Etienne Gueffier. Italian architects Francesco de Sanctis and Alessandro Specchi were tasked with designing the staircase after winning a design competition held in 1717.

While you certainly won't face a shortage of places to visit in Rome, a tour of the Spanish Steps is highly recommended. Apart from its beautiful exhibition of Baroque architecture, the stairs take you on an incredible historical journey. As you plan your visit, one important thing to note is that sitting here is illegal and you can face steep fines if you sit on the Spanish Steps.

Surrounding attractions like the luxury shopping stores in its vicinity and its proximity to Rome's other landmarks make it an even easier recommendation.

Where to stay - Hotel Hassler Roma

There's no shortage of 5-star hotels in Rome. However, if you'd like to be close to the attraction during your visit, you have one great option. Situated at the top the stairs close to Trinità dei Monti, Hotel Hassler Roma offers a solid accommodation option for guests with a lovely aesthetic that neatly complements the stairs. The roof-top terrace also offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Eternal City. It's likely to be your favorite part of the hotel.

You'll love the hotel's excellent service, inviting "family-run inn" vibe, and its Michelin-starred dining experience at the Imago restaurant, which has over-sized windows so you can enjoy wonderful views of the city while you dine.

Shopping at Piazza di Spagna

One of the most famous squares in Italy today, Piazza di Spagna is synonymous with luxury thanks to the tens of luxury boutiques, designer and jewelry stores, and luxury watch retailers close to it (mostly along Via dei Condotti and all the way down to Largo Carlo Goldoni). When you decide it's time to shop, this is the place to do it.