When looking for a hotel in Rome, you can read that many of them say that they are close to tourist attractions, such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and sometimes even the Spanish Steps. The first two are quite iconic buildings and are synonymous with the history of Rome, but what about the Spanish Steps? Why are they so popular with tourists from all over the world who come to visit? Here is a little history for you.

The Spanish Steps consists of 137 individual steps and is the link between the Piazza di Spagna and the Iglesia Trinita dei Monti. The steps were originally created by two men, Alessandro Specchi and Francesco De Sanctis, to join the Via del Babuino and Via Felice in 1585. At the foot of the steps, stands the infamous Fuente Barcaccia (“Old Ship’s Fountain”). It was Created in 1627-29 by the Italian sculptor Pietro Bernini and Gian Lorenzo, Pietro’s son. The project was funded by Stefano Gueffier, a French diplomat.

Today the area is always busy and is seen as a meeting place by many locals and you will also notice that this is a place where many tour guides gather. The area is very upscale and there are many small designer shops nearby, so expect to see plenty of shoppers stopping by to rest from their busy days. Back in the 18th century, the most beautiful people from all over the country climbed the steps, hoping to be chosen as an artist’s model.

The steps may seem like a great place to relax and maybe grab a bite to eat, but be warned, the local Italian authorities have banned visitors from eating on the steps. This regulation was introduced to help keep the area clean and pleasant for future tourists.

The Keats-Shelley Memorial House is also nearby. This house where John Keats died in 1821 is open to the public Monday through Friday. If you’re looking for nearby Rome hotels and other things to do, be sure to do your research beforehand.