Fountain is a jet or stream of water that rises naturally or artificially as a result of pressure. In a natural fountain, this pressure comes from the weight of water collected in a reservoir, its temperature, or both. The water flows through an underground passage until it can discharge, as in a spring, or shoot out, as in a geyser. In artificial fountains, pumps supply the pressure. This article deals with artificial fountains.
Artificial fountains can be both decorative and practical. They help keep pools and ponds clean and can reduce excess flow of water. Decorative fountains are frequently found in plazas, parks, and malls. In such fountains, water may flow from or over sculptures of people, mythical creatures, or natural objects. People enjoy watching and hearing the water’s movement.
Fountains have existed for thousands of years. In ancient Greece, people built fountains above springs thought to have magical powers. The Greeks added beautiful statues of Greek gods and goddesses to the flowing waters. The ancient Romans built hundreds of fountains in Rome, copying Greek designs.
Some of the most complicated and beautiful fountains in Europe were built during the Renaissance and baroque periods, from the 1500’s to the 1700’s. Elaborate pumping systems created wide cascades of water, channeled water down steps, or forced it to shoot up in powerful jets. Many famous fountains were built during the 1600’s and 1700’s. These include the Fountain of the Four Rivers (1651) and the Trevi Fountain (1762), both in Rome. The fountains at the Palace of Versailles (begun in 1661), near Paris, are also well known.
Loading the player...Trevi Fountain in Rome
During the late 1800’s and early 1900’s, many fountains that imitated classical designs were built in city parks and public squares and on private estates. Beginning in the 1960’s, many landscape architects introduced fresh ideas into fountain design. Today, architects use computers to control lights and water flow in public fountains. These fountains are as elaborate and beautiful as those of any previous era.
