Rome's Trevi Fountain Undergoes Major Renovation

The Trevi Fountain in Rome is undergoing renovations in preparation for the 2025 Jubilee, leading to the installation of a temporary pool for tourists to toss coins into, which has drawn widespread criticism for its unattractive design. Made of unpainted plywood and enclosed by a plastic fence, the pool is intended to protect maintenance workers and continue the tradition of coin tossing that generates approximately €1.5 million annually for charity. Many visitors have expressed disappointment with the makeshift pool, describing it as an eyesore and comparing it to a 'footbath'. Meanwhile, a metal gangway is being constructed over the fountain to allow closer viewing of the sculpture Oceanus, with plans to charge a two-euro admission fee starting in April 2025. The renovations, costing around €300,000, aim to enhance the site ahead of the major celebrations expected to attract millions. Online commentators have harshly criticized the temporary solution, with some declaring it the 'saddest thing' seen in Italy recently.