This square may be considered as the centre of the English and
Americans in Rome. Here they come for most of their requirements, and
here a great many live. At No. 1, _the corner_, is the well-known
Piale's library and reading-room, the most extensive in Rome, where
one may find any information that he requires as to what is going on
in the city, and, through the newspapers, what is passing at home.
Monti, the poet, lived at No. 9. Mr. Hooker's American Bank is No. 20.
Shelley lived at No. 25; and Keats at No. 26, the right-hand corner
house, by the steps, where an inscription has lately been put up. This
square once formed part of "an artificial lake made by Domitian for
the representation of naval fights. The fleets were as numerous as
those employed in real engagements" (Suetonius, "Dom." 4).
[Illustration: FOUNTAIN OF TREVI.]
The principal objects are the fountain LA BARCACCIA, by Bernini, at
the foot of the Spanish Stairs. It is here that the model and flower
girls most do congregate. The column of the IMMACULATE CONCEPTION,
found in the Campo Marzo, is supported by statues of Moses, David,
Isaiah, and Ezekiel. Its summit is crowned by a statue of the Virgin,
in bronze, designed by Poletti. It was erected in 1854. _Beyond_ is
the Collegio di Propaganda Fide, founded in 1662 by Gregory XV.
_Taking the streets on the right of the Propaganda_, VIAS PROPAGANDA
_and_ S. ANDREA DELLE FRATTE, _then the_ VIA DEL BUFALO _on the right,
turning into the_ VIA POLI _on the left, brings us to_