The Trevi Fountain in Rome is one of the best-known symbols of the Eternal City thanks to its beauty, but also to famous films. There are many legends about the history of this monument. The most famous to both Italians and tourists is definitely the myth about the coin toss.
But where did this tradition come from?
According to historians, the tradition of the coin toss is very old.
The ancient Romans already used to throw coins into streams, rivers, lakes, and even fountains thousands of years ago. This ritual served to secure the favor of water deities and attract good fortune. For example, on the eve of a trip, the ancient Romans would toss a coin into the water to ensure that they would return safely to the capital.
According to tradition, the coin toss goes like this:
- Take a coin.
- Turn your back to the fountain.
- Toss the coin backwards.
- Turn around quickly to watch the moment the coin touches the water.
Just as in the legend, this is an auspicious gesture that symbolizes the desire to return to visit Rome.
The ritual of lovers
Another tradition related to the Trevi Fountain concerns lovers. When a young man had to leave the capital, his fiancée would accompany him to the Trevi Fountain to drink its water together from a cup that had never been used, which was then broken. In this way love became unbreakable despite the distance.
Now you may wonder what happens to the coins thrown into the fountain and whether the tradition of lovers still exists.
- To answer the first question, it is interesting to know that the coins are collected by city employees and then donated to charities.
- The second answer is no. The water in the Trevi Fountain is not drinkable, as it is recycled water. But there is a smaller fountain with safe water to the side where lovers can declare their undying love to each other.