Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps (Scalinata Spagna) are another famous gathering place in Rome. The steps were designed by an Italian and built from 1723 to 1725. They were paid for by the French. The church at the top of the steps is the French chruch, Trinità dei Monti. The Spanish Steps were so named for the Spanish embassy to the Holy See that was nearby during the construction.

In the 18th century the most beautiful women and men of Italy gathered here, waiting to be chosen as an artist's model. In May each year the steps are decorated with pink azaleas.

The narrow street just opposite is the Via dei Condotti, Rome's premier shopping street, where you'll find the original stores of such names as Gucci.

Thanks to about.com ,wwww.romaclick.com, and www.netsci.org for the information.