The Spanish Steps are a set of 138 steps, designed in 1723 by Francesco De Sanctis. They climb a steep slope between the Piazza di Spagna at the base and Piazza Trinita dei Monti at the top dominated by Trinita dei Monti Church. The steps are at the eastern end of the old city centre. From the base there is a maze of very narrow lanes crammed full with designer shops.

During the 18th century, the Spanish Steps became a meeting place for both artists, poets etc. Today one of the more famous residents, John Keats has a museum next to the Spanish Steps where the English poet John Keats lived and died. Today the Spanish Steps are still an important meeting place.

In May each year the steps are decorated with pink azaleas.

The area immediately around the Spanish Steps is one of the most upmarket districts in Rome, the Via dei Condotti facing the Spanish Steps being where you find the top range designer and perfume shops. Behind the Spanish Steps is an area where you find some of the finest and most expensive hotels in Rome, the area is also popular with a cluster of artists painting visitors portraits and were surprisingly busy whilst we were there.