The Spanish Steps, or Scalina Spagna, are one of the must see places when in Rome. Consisting of 138 steps placed in a mix of curves, straight flights, vistas, and terraces , the steps form an irregular butterfly shape that attracts all walks of life to come, sit down, and admire the Eternal City.
The Spanish steps were built in 1723-1725 by a design of the rather little known architect Francesco de Sanctis and were financed by French diplomat Étienne Gueffier’s. It was built in order to link the Trinità dei Monti church that was under the patronage of the king of France, with the Spanish square below. The French wanted to place a statue of King Louis XIV (14th) at the top of the stairs, however, the pope refused to allow it.
The unique design and elegance of the Spanish steps has attracted and inspired many artists, painters and poets over time. Many beautiful women migrated to the area, hoping to be taken as models for the artists. This in turn, attracted rich Romans and travelers. After a short time, the steps were crowded with people of all kinds of backgrounds.
As a result, The Spanish Steps became a popular meeting place in Rome in which many different cultures unite and have been ever since.