subject: Rome Hotels Near The Spanish Steps [print this page] The Spanish Steps (Italian: Scalinata della Trinita' dei Monti) are one of the most famous picture postcard scenes of Rome and also an important gathering point for tourists. Following a competition in 1717, the steps were designed and built in 1723-1725 by relatively unknown architect Francesco de Sanctis. The 138 steps were built on the request of Pope Innocent XII to connect Palazzo Monaldeschi, still home to the Spanish Embassy, to the church that dominates the square above, namely the Church of Trinita' dei Monti.
The steps and the square were one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city during the Renaissance Period, and the design of the steps - ramps and stairs which intersect and open out like a fan - was a very daring architectural feat for that time. At the base of the steps is the Barcaccia Fountain, a piece of work by Pietro Bernini and his son, Gian Lorenzo. The fountain depicts a sinking ship and recalls the historic flood of the River Tiber 1598. Spring is a great time to view the staircase, as it is carpeted with a vast array of colours from the blooming flowers.
Piazza di Spagna is also the starting point of Rome's classy shopping area and is the axis point of several of the city's most beautiful shopping streets, such as Via del Babuino and Via Borgognona. Also on the square and of interest to the tourist is the Keats-Shelley Memorial House, the Giorgio De Chirico House and the Babington's Tea Room. Although a busy and crowded place, it is worth noting that a Roman by-law forbids eating lunch on the steps.
As the Spanish Steps are located in the heart of historic Rome, the location provides a privileged base and is an ideal starting point for discovering the city on foot. There are several accommodation establishments spread on and around the square. Because of their notable location, they offer accommodation which is perhaps a little bit more expensive than that in other areas of the city. Below is a small sample of three hotels near the Spanish Steps, each offering a different type of accommodation.
Rhona's Rooms is an elegant bed and breakfast located on the elegant shopping street of Via dei Condotti, just around the corner from the Spanish Steps. This small establishment offers a personal, non-intrusive service and just four en suite guest rooms, each of which provide an amiable and relaxing atmosphere. A good selection of in room facilities are available, including air conditioning and Wi-Fi.
3 star Hotel Trinita' dei Monti conveniently lies on Via Sistina, one of the streets that leads up to the Spanish Steps. Within a short walk you can reach the Trevi Fountain, as well as Piazza di Spagna, and there is a choice of two metro stations (Spagna and Barberini) nearby. Ideal for both the business traveller and tourist, each guest room has an en suite bathroom and comes equipped all of today's mod cons.
4 star equivalent Hotel Art By The Spanish Steps lies on a quaint narrow street between Villa Borghese and the Spanish Steps. The perfect romantic location, this boutique hotel in Rome provides contemporary accommodation in the form of 46 en suite guest rooms. You will be welcomed by friendly and professional staff who will be happy to help you with any part of your visit in Rome.
