The Genesis Of Fountains
The Genesis Of Fountains
From the onset, outdoor fountains were simply there to serve as functional elements. Inhabitants of urban areas, townships and small towns used them as a source of drinking water and a place to wash, which meant that fountains had to be connected to nearby aqueduct or spring. Up to the late nineteenth century, water fountains had to be near an aqueduct or reservoir and more elevated than the fountain so that gravity could make the water flow down or jet high into the air. Fountains were an excellent source of water, and also served to adorn living areas and celebrate the artist. Roman fountains often depicted images of animals or heroes made of bronze or stone masks. Throughout the Middle Ages, Muslim and Moorish garden planners incorporated fountains to create mini variations of the gardens of paradise. Fountains played a significant role in the Gardens of Versailles, all part of French King Louis XIV’s desire to exert his power over nature. To mark the entrance of the restored Roman aqueducts, the Popes of the 17th and 18th centuries commissioned the building of baroque style fountains in the spot where the aqueducts entered the city of Rome
Indoor plumbing became the main source of water by the end of the 19th century thereby limiting urban fountains to mere decorative elements. Gravity was replaced by mechanical pumps in order to permit fountains to bring in clean water and allow for beautiful water displays.
These days, fountains decorate public areas and are used to recognize individuals or events and fill recreational and entertainment needs.
Select from Any Number of Outdoor Wall Fountain Styles

Mounted and free-standing water features are obtainable on the market. Small, self-contained models can be placed on a wall are known as mounted wall fountains. Fountains of this type need to be lightweight, therefore, they are typically made of resin (resembling stone) or fiberglass. Free-standing fountains, often referred to as floor fountains, are of considerable size, have a basin situated on the ground and a smooth side which leans against a wall. Water features such as these are typically made of cast stone and have no weight restrictions.
Custom-made fountains which can be incorporated into a new or existing wall are often recommended by landscaping designers. Employing an expert mason is your best option to construct the basin and install the necessary plumbing. You will need to incorporate a spout or fountain mask into the wall. The cohesive look produced by custom-made wall fountains make them appear to be part of the landscape rather than an afterthought.
Early Crete & The Minoans: Outdoor Fountains
Early Crete & The Minoans: Outdoor Fountains