Bernini’s First Italian Fountains
Bernini’s First Italian Fountains
Bernini's earliest fountain, named Barcaccia, is a masterful work of art found at the bottom of the Trinita dei Monti in Piaza di Spagna. To this day, this area is flooded with Roman locals and travelers alike who enjoy conversation and each other's company. Bernini would undoubtedly have been happy to know that people still flock to what has become one the city's most fashionable areas, that around his amazing water fountain. In about 1630, the great artist built the very first fountain of his career at the behest of Pope Ubano VIII. The fountain’s central theme is based on an enormous ship slowly sinking into the Mediterranean. Period reports dating back to the 16th century show that the fountain was built as a monument to those who lost their lives in the great flooding of the Tevere. Absenting himself from Italy only once in his life for a prolonged time period, in 1665 Bernini voyaged to France.
The One Cleaning Solution to NEVER Use On Your Garden Wall Fountains
The One Cleaning Solution to NEVER Use On Your Garden Wall Fountains Proper care and regular cleaning are important to the longevity of water fountains. A typical issue with fountains is that they tend to accumulate dirt and debris, so it is essential that you keep it free from this. Additionally, anywhere light from the sun combines with still water, algae can appear. Mix hydrogen peroxide, sea salt, or vinegar into the water to avoid this particular issue. There are those who prefer to use bleach, but that is dangerous to any animals that might drink or bathe in the water - so should therefore be avoided.
No more than three-four months should really go by without an extensive cleansing of a fountain. The first step is to get rid of all the water. When you have done this, scour inside the water reservoir with a gentle detergent. Feel free to use a toothbrush if helpful for any stubborn crevasses. Be sure to thoroughly rinse the inner surface of the fountain to make sure all the soap is gone.
Some organisms and calcium deposits may get inside the pump, so it is best to take it apart and clean it completely. To make it less challenging, soak it in vinegar overnight before cleaning. Mineral or rain water, versus tap water, is ideal in order to prevent any build-up of chemicals inside the pump.
And finally, make sure the water level is continuously full in order to keep your fountain running optimally. If the water level drops below the pump’s intake level, it can damage the pump and cause it to burn out - something you don't want to happen!