ROME IN A SCOOP: CONES AND COINS

VIDEO DESCRIPTION

 

 

Toward the end of a long city day under the Roman sun, we treat ourselves to gelato—mine topped with whimsical Mickey Mouse ears. Gelato is Italy’s iconic frozen delight: smoother, denser, and more intensely flavoured than ordinary ice cream, thanks to slow churning that incorporates less air. Made from fresh milk, cream, fruit, or nuts, every scoop bursts with taste. With cones in hand, we wander Rome’s cobbled streets, savouring the cool sweetness as the anticipation builds with each step toward the Trevi Fountain. The sound of rushing water leads us to the Baroque masterpiece, completed in 1762. Here, the tradition continues: standing with our backs to the fountain, we toss a coin over the left shoulder. Legend promises that one coin ensures a return to Rome, two bring new romance, and three foretell marriage. Popularised in the 20th century and immortalised in films, this ritual has become an essential part of the Roman experience. Today, the coins are gathered daily and donated to charity — turning a simple wish into both a personal hope and an act of kindness.