Piazza di Spagna
/ˈpjat.t͡sa di ˈspaɲ.ɲa/word by word
The English phrase "spanish steps" refers to the Italian Piazza di Spagna.
Piazza di Spagna refers to the famous monumental steps and the surrounding square located in Rome.
Which one should you use?
The formal official name is Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti. Another formal alternative is La scalinata spagnola, which specifically translates to "the Spanish Staircase".
How do you pronounce it?
It has 4 syllables, with the stress on the 1st syllable.
Did you know?
- Sitting on the Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti is now prohibited by local laws to protect the monument. Police often patrol the area to fine tourists who treat the steps as a bench.
- The word piazza used in Piazza di Spagna shares a common ancestor with the English word 'plate', originating from the Latin word for a flat surface or wide street.
- The phrase Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti describes a physical connection between two different nations. The stairs were built to link the Spanish Embassy at the bottom to a French church at the top.
Examples in context
- Ci vediamo alla Piazza di Spagna.Let's meet at the Spanish Steps.
Example conversation
Two friends are planning a walking tour in Rome.
- ChiaraVuoi andare alla Piazza di Spagna?Do you want to go to the Spanish Steps?
- FrancescoSì, è un'ottima idea.Yes, that's a great idea.
- ChiaraPossiamo fare un po' di shopping lì.We can do a little shopping there.
- FrancescoPerfetto, andiamo subito!Perfect, let's go right now!
