One of the best-known symbols of Rome, the Trevi Fountain, will receive a much needed facelift from Italian luxury fashion brand Fendi who are financing the $3,5million restoration of the baroque masterpiece.

The restoration of the fountain, completed in 1762, is due to take 20 months. Rome's fountains "are there to glorify water, which is the most important thing in life," Fendi’s creative director Karl Lagerfeld told a press conference.

The Trevi Fountain was featured in an iconic scene in Fellini's 1960 film La Dolce Vita, starring Anita Ekberg and Marcello Mastroianni. It also appeared in Roman Holiday which starred Audrey Hepburn. 

La Dolce Vita directed by Federico Fellini (image from kinopoisk.ru)

Fendi will be the only sponsor of the pricey restoration, which will be done in stages in order not to scare off millions of tourists. A plaque noting Fendi's contribution will be placed on the landmark once completed.

The Fountain was last restored in 1989. Last summer parts of the stonework from the fountain's façade started to crumble after being affected by winter weather.

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